Candid Camera Testing

I read an article online today on new software to help insure student honesty outside of the classroom. This new technology will use Web cams to ensure that students taking exams online do not cheat. According to the article, Troy University (Alabama) will begin using security systems from Software Secure (Cambridge, Mass. Company) with 11,000 online students this fall. Evidently, the software locks down the computer while tests are taken (so students will not be able to surf for answers on the Web or their computer). The new version of the software also includes fingerprint authentication and a small Web cam and microphone setup to view and identify the person taking the test.

According to the article, “when the exam begins the device records audio and video, then the software detects significant noises and motions and flags them in the recording. An instructor can go back and watch only the portions flagged by the software to see if anything untoward is going on -- a student making a phone call, leaving the room -- and if there is a sudden surge in performance afterward.”

Although the inventors admit these tools are far from perfect, they bring distance learning classes closer to on site classroom environments. What is the cost for these devices? $125 per student. A small price to pay for 24/7 learning. Since over 3.2 million students were taking online classes in the fall of 2005 (Sloan Consortium), these tools will help both students and faculty better evaluate online learning.