There is a new anti-cheating technology service called Proctortrack that universities such as Rutgers are using for online course exams to ensure the person who is signed up for the course is actually the one taking the exam. The software uses webcams to scan students’ features and verify their identities before the test, makes a video recording of the test taker as the test goes on, and monitors their computer use. The test taker is reminded of the monitoring throughout the test as a live image shows up in miniature on the test taker’s computer screen. Colleges and universities argue that this monitoring is crucial to demonstrate the veracity of their online degree programs to prospective employers. Rutgers is charging students a $37.00 fee for the proctoring service.
Several students at Rutgers have voiced their opinions about feeling uncomfortable with the software because it monitors how many times you look down and away from the screen - which could been seen as cheating - and they worry that it might continue to monitor computer usage even after it has been removed. Proctortrack denies this, however the privacy policy of the company does state that it “may disclose users’ personal information to third-party service providers or in the event of a company merger, sale or bankruptcy.” Recording students taking tests adds a new pressure to test taking and it will be interesting to see how this technology is used or restricted in the future.