Thread by @dararyder

To those institutions considering using #proctoring software for assessment - just don't. So many privacy, trust and #accessibility reasons why we shouldn't do this. Frankly, in my view it's bordering on being a human rights issue. #UDL
@IUAofficial @TheUSI @THEA_Irl Thread:

Proctoring is an unfair and inequitable tool to ensure academic integrity - the real solution lies in sound assessment design. Dont bring an inaccessible/unethical tech solution to a pedagogical problem.

Proctoring software that lock down aspects of the computer but do not require camera access gives an unfair disadvantage to students who can afford multiple devices – i.e. if you have added devices you can use them to access the internet undetected.

Software that use the camera breach fairly basic privacy/data protection concerns & impose unrealistic expectations e.g.:
-to have a quiet and private space in your home for assessment.
-to have adequate broadband to stream uninterrupted to invigilator without impeding completion

Some proctoring software uses facial recognition algorithms to determine whether a candidate is cheating (e.g. eye movements flagged as suspicious behaviour) i.e. whether they have notes stuck to the wall or are looking at other devices.

Such software may mistakenly flag those with ticks or other physical disabilities which cause eye movement as potentially cheating. Serious concern that those who practice self-stimulatory behavior or “stimming,” may get flagged repeatedly or be forced to disclose to avoid this.

The lockdown of pc/browser function enacted by many proctoring softwares can render assistive technologies ineffective or defunct altogether.

Some reasonable accommodations such as using remote scribes may not be possible to apply with certain proctoring softwares. In the case of scribes, the #proctoring software will likely request the use of the camera meaning the student cannot connect with their dedicated scribe.

The concept of being watched at very close quarters may be extremely #anxiety inducing for students with mental health conditions and those with sensory impairments in what is already a high pressure situation. I think everyone can relate here - it's unnerving.

All of this can be avoided by encouraging sound assessment design in which tasks set which interrogate the students understanding of the learning outcomes and place the onus back on educators rather than foisting an inaccessible/unethical tech solution to a pedagogical problem.

Set problems that ask students to get under the learning & show some trust. Try to lessen the burden on students - work in your department to see where you can reduce the load across modules without lowering standards and spread out deadlines. Be realistic and show empathy.