This content was published: April 1, 2014. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Drone proctoring now available
Posted by Andy Freed
PCC’s Distance Education department has teamed up with the testing centers, the Department of Education, and Homeland Security to offer remote exam proctoring through a new service called “Proctorcoptor.”
One artist’s conception of the new drone proctoring service.
The new service allows online students to take high-stakes exams remotely using a state of the art unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), more commonly known a “drone.” These drones are able to maintain a secure exam location and ensure that all tests are free from tampering, unapproved assistance, or professional test takers.
How to use the new service
Using the new service is simple:
- Select a testing location that is free of overhead obstacles, including:
- power lines
- ceiling fans
- forest canopy/vines
- Let Proctorcoptor review your computer
- Enter the exam password provided by the Proctorcoptor
- Hold very still if the Proctorcopter tries to land on you to collect DNA for proof of identity
- Complete the exam, ignoring the droning noise the rotors make
Improved security
Proctorcopter is able to compare images taken during proctoring sessions and cross-reference the images with Criagslist ads for professional test-taking services. We’re confident that this new technology will support the diverse learning needs of our students and faculty, though these early models are modular and can be retrofit as new proctoring technology becomes “civilianized.”
And coming soon: Support for group exams and pop quizzes!
Is this real?
And while this is an April Fool’s joke, it isn’t that far fetched. On slightly more serious note, we will be examining proctoring guidelines over the coming year to try and improve consistency around the proctoring process. Stay tuned for more details.
About Andy Freed
I'm the Director of Learning Technology & Innovation (LTI!), where I oversee our infrastructure, technical support, and the innovation hub. I've been with the College since 2001 and have worked in several positions, from technical suppo... more »
That’s hilarious. Thanks, Andy!
Very cute April Fools!
Brilliant. You finally got me to post a response.
Great April Fools day spoof! Loved it – but the possibility, even is somewhat distant is also a little scary -ooooh
I want one! :)
Ha-ha-ha, Andy. Thanks for the prank and sobering premonition.
Great April Fools joke! You had me going! I love the part about collecting DNA!
Ha… I was going to ask if this was a FOOOOL! Nice one. Proctorcoptor was just tooooo cheesey!!!
Very interesting post – very thought provoking. Happy April everyone!
Love it – thanks!! A catchy anthropomorphic design — now, how about a drone that will eliminate those “high-stakes” tests??? ;) Have a great one!
Love this Andy, thanks for the smile!
That was my laugh of the day. I am so glad to see a sense of humor alive and well in our PCC family.
You got me :)
Even after April Fools day it is still a great prank, OR IS IT??? :|