One of the biggest barriers to creating an online learning environment identical in experience to traditional education is test proctoring. A provision in a bill expected to pass before Congress by the fall aims to resolve this issue by mandating that universities use biometric technologies to proctor online tests.

 

According to an article appearing in the July 25 issue of The Chronicle of Higher Education, several manufacturers have developed electronic proctors. These devices range from simple fingerprint scanners to complex webcams that monitor a 360-degree area around the test-taker. The cost of this new technology will likely be passed on to the consumer—online students can expect to pay up to $150 for a device.

 

While many colleges have embraced the new technology, citing improved test security as key to increasing the legitimacy of online education, others fear it encroaches on students’ privacy. Rhonda Epper, co-executive director of Colorado Community Colleges Online told The Chronicle that the new technology “is taking a step into a student’s private life…I don’t know if we want to extend our presence that far.” Congress, as is to be expected, is far less skeptical—the provision has yet to attract a vocal opposition.

 

Chronicle of Higher Education: New Systems Keep a Close Eye on Online Students at Home

Tags: Learning Technologies, Online Education