Tips for Test Proctoring
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 23, 2020) — With University of Kentucky final exams coming up soon and being held remotely, students should be prepared for test content and how the test will be offered. Preparation for online proctored testing includes knowing about the software and the experience. Here are the top five tips for avoiding stress while using Respondus or ProctorU.
- Your connection: If you can, use a wired connection (ethernet cable) rather than WiFi. This reduces the chances that your connection will be interrupted or lag during the exam. If you are using WiFi, try to sit close to the router and close down anything competing for bandwidth (e.g., phone, streaming TV).
- Your environment: Take the exam in a well-lighted space with few objects in the background. Photos or paintings may register as an extra “face” appearing in your camera frame. If you can, try to achieve a high contrast between yourself and the background or wall.
- Your experience: Respondus allows for practice tests. If your instructor has set up a practice test for Respondus, take it. If they haven’t, you might want to request one. Take a practice test in the same location and on the same device that you'll use for the real test. ProctorU provides a video to help you learn more about the start-up experience you will have (note that your proctor will provide instructions for the rest of the test based on the type of ProctorU test you are taking, so focus on the start-up portion).
- Your support: Before your test, know how to start a chat in Respondus Monitor and find more Respondus resources and/or visit the ProctorU Help Center.
- Your device: If you are using an iPad to take a test in Respondus, delete your Canvas app. It interferes with testing (Canvas is working on it). You can always add it back later.
More about troubleshooting and support:
- If you are preparing to take a test in Respondus Lockdown Browser (no camera) and are experiencing problems, use the automated troubleshooter in the test. If you continue to have problems, you may need to contact your instructor and/or file a Respondus ticket. If using Monitor as well (the camera for automated proctoring), a live chat is available as you set up to troubleshoot camera issues. Find support information, including how to file a ticket, find troubleshooting tips and access chat, on the Respondus website under the Technical Support section.
- Technical and administrative support is available 24/7 by visiting the ProctorU help center. You may also call 855-772-8678, email support@proctoru.com, or start a live chat. Additionally, test-takers can test their equipment prior to an exam by clicking the “Test My Equipment” button when they log into their ProctorU account.
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