ZOOM FOR EDUCATION Using Zoom Focus Mode to Support Online Proctoring

Overview

For a variety of reasons, an instructor may opt against using Proctorio which is Butler's online proctoring service but still need to still use online proctoring. In these cases, Zoom may be worth considering especially when using Zoom's Focus mode. Keep in mind that no proctoring approach is fool proof and each have their advantages and pitfalls. One advantage of using Zoom is that it replicates (to some extent) in-person proctoring in that that actual course instructor is typically the face that students will see in the Zoom session. Using Zoom's Focus mode the instructor will be able to see all students' faces in gallery view similar to seeing all students in the classroom but the students will only be able to see the instructor. Read on to learn the advantages and disadvantages of using Zoom for proctoring and how to set-up Zoom with Focus mode for that same purpose.

Advantages of using Zoom for Proctoring

Instructors can observe student webcams during exams and some aspects of exams can be recorded.
Zoom’s gallery view will show up to 49 student webcam images depending on screen size.
Students can be separated into breakout rooms that can be monitored by other instructors or proctors.
Zoom "Focus" mode allows students to see only the instructor (not other students).

Limitations of using Zoom for Proctoring

Other Considerations

Instructor will need to verify that each student’s exam was submitted in Canvas before the student disconnects from Zoom. (Note: “Focus mode” may provide a solution for this.)
Zoom proctoring may exacerbate equity issues for students who lack access to technology, such as high speed internet, or students who need accommodations.

Preparing for Zoom-Based Proctoring

Prepare
1. Establish proctoring protocols
2. Set proctoring expectations with syllabus language and directions for students
3. Create a support plan
4. Plan alternative assessment methods for students unable to be proctored due to technology limitations, accommodations, etc.
5. Identify proctored exams and dates before semester begins
Set Up
1. Canvas settings
  1. Set up a Quiz (Tip: Use availability times to limit access)
2. Zoom settings
  1. Create Zoom meeting inside Canvas
  2. While setting up meeting...
    1. “Automatically record meeting” “in the cloud” to capture main session
    2. Turn off “Enable join before host”
    3. Turn on “Mute participants upon entry”
  3. During meeting...
    1. Turn on “Focus mode”
    2. Set chat to “Host only”
    3. Set screen sharing to “Only host”
    4. Uncheck “Allow participants to screen share”
    5. Make proctors “co-hosts”
Communicate
1. Before - syllabus, announcements, etc.
2. During - backchannel, submission confirmation
Proctor
1. Exam day steps for students and proctors
2. Recording and review process for proctor team
Review and Evaluate
1. Review incidents
2. Report academic integrity violations in accordance with Butler standards

Acknowledgement: University of California Davis's Keep Teaching Site