This content was published: April 1, 2014. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.

Drone proctoring now available

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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.”

image of drone asking for ID and password

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:

  1. Select a testing location that is free of overhead obstacles, including:
    • power lines
    • ceiling fans
    • forest canopy/vines
  2. Let Proctorcoptor review your computer
  3. Enter the exam password provided by the Proctorcoptor
  4. Hold very still if the Proctorcopter tries to land on you to collect DNA for proof of identity
  5. 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 online student services teams. I've been with the College since 2001 and have worked in several positions, from tech... more »

Poppie with speech bubble

Comments

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x by Jane Zunkel 1 decade ago

That’s hilarious. Thanks, Andy!

x by Kimberly Neuburger 1 decade ago

Very cute April Fools!

x by Heather Guevara 1 decade ago

Brilliant. You finally got me to post a response.

x by DeLyse Totten 1 decade ago

Great April Fools day spoof! Loved it – but the possibility, even is somewhat distant is also a little scary -ooooh

x by Cynthia 1 decade ago

I want one! :)

x by Joe Corrado 1 decade ago

Ha-ha-ha, Andy. Thanks for the prank and sobering premonition.

x by Joanie Ellis 1 decade ago

Great April Fools joke! You had me going! I love the part about collecting DNA!

x by Andi Medlock 1 decade ago

Ha… I was going to ask if this was a FOOOOL! Nice one. Proctorcoptor was just tooooo cheesey!!!

x by Mary Schutten 1 decade ago

Very interesting post – very thought provoking. Happy April everyone!

x by Elizabeth Bilyeu 1 decade ago

Love it – thanks!! A catchy anthropomorphic design — now, how about a drone that will eliminate those “high-stakes” tests??? ;) Have a great one!

x by Kathy Carrigan 1 decade ago

Love this Andy, thanks for the smile!

x by Karen Morgan 1 decade ago

That was my laugh of the day. I am so glad to see a sense of humor alive and well in our PCC family.

x by Jon Vaught 1 decade ago

You got me :)

x by Daniel Otto 1 decade ago

Even after April Fools day it is still a great prank, OR IS IT??? :|