Quick Links: | About Proctorio | Privacy and Monitoring | Technology Requirements | Accessibility and Alternatives | Interpreting Results | Support |
This FAQ answers common faculty questions about Proctorio, including privacy, technology requirements, accessibility, student barriers, and interpretation of Proctorio results.
For step-by-step guidance, see Using Proctorio in Canvas: A Faculty Workflow. To request Proctorio for a course, see Request Proctorio for a Canvas Course.
About Proctorio
What is Proctorio?
Proctorio is an online exam-proctoring and security tool that integrates with Canvas. Depending on the settings selected for an assessment, it can apply restrictions or collect information about the testing session for later instructor review.
Proctorio uses automated software rather than a live proctor. Instructors remain responsible for reviewing any flagged activity and determining whether follow-up is appropriate.
Why is online proctoring used?
Online proctoring can support academic integrity for selected online assessments and provide instructors with information to review when concerns arise.
Proctorio should be used deliberately and only when its features are appropriate for the assessment.
Is faculty training required?
Training is not required, but instructors should understand the student testing experience, available Proctorio settings, accessibility considerations, and how to interpret results before using the tool.
Training and support are available from Proctorio and the Technology & Learning Program.
How is Proctorio licensed?
Proctorio is licensed for specific approved Canvas course sections based on expected enrollment. Departments are responsible for arranging and funding access.
See Request Proctorio for a Canvas Course for the current request and activation process.
Privacy and Monitoring
What can Proctorio monitor?
What Proctorio monitors depends on the settings selected for the assessment.
Depending on those settings, Proctorio may collect or monitor information such as:
- Webcam video
- Microphone audio
- Screen activity
- Browser or web activity during the assessment
- Identity-verification information
- Information about the testing environment
Not every Proctorio assessment uses every available feature.
For additional information, review the Proctorio website and Proctorio privacy policy.
What does Proctorio not access?
According to Proctorio's published privacy information, the tool does not have unrestricted access to students' personal files or normal computer activity outside the assessment session.
For current details about what Proctorio collects and how information is handled, review Proctorio's privacy and security documentation.
Technology Requirements
What computer and browser requirements does Proctorio have?
Requirements depend on the device and the settings enabled for the assessment.
Desktop and laptop users generally need:
- A supported browser
- The Proctorio Secure Exam Proctor extension
- A reliable internet connection
- A webcam and microphone when required by the assessment
Some enhanced security settings may also require the Proctorio Companion app.
Because requirements can change, refer students to Proctorio's current system requirements rather than listing specific browser versions in course materials.
Can students use university- or employer-managed computers?
Possibly. Managed computers may prevent students from installing browser extensions or other required Proctorio software.
Students should test the device with the practice assessment before a graded exam. If installation is blocked, they may need to use another compatible computer or seek support.
Accessibility and Alternatives
What if a student needs a disability-related accommodation?
Students with disability-related accommodations should work with their instructor and the Accessibility Resource Center.
Approved accommodations may require changes to Canvas settings, Proctorio Exam Exceptions, or the testing environment.
Some permitted behaviors or assistive technologies may also generate automated Proctorio indicators. Instructors should consider the student's approved accommodations when reviewing results.
What if a student cannot use Proctorio as configured?
Students who encounter a barrier should contact their instructor before the assessment whenever possible.
Depending on the circumstances and applicable university or departmental requirements, an alternative testing arrangement may be appropriate. Disability-related alternatives should be coordinated through the Accessibility Resource Center when applicable.
What if a student does not have a compatible computer?
Students should be directed to available campus technology resources as early as possible. Managed or borrowed devices should be tested before the exam to confirm that required Proctorio software can be installed and used.
Interpreting Results
Does a Proctorio flag mean a student cheated?
No.
A flag indicates that Proctorio identified activity that may warrant instructor review. It is not a determination that academic misconduct occurred.
Normal behavior, technical problems, environmental conditions, accessibility needs, or permitted activities may generate indicators.
How should I evaluate flagged activity?
Review the complete attempt and consider:
- The assessment instructions
- Permitted materials and behaviors
- Approved accommodations
- Technical issues
- The surrounding context of the flagged event
Automated indicators should be treated as information for instructor review rather than as a final conclusion.
What should I do if I believe academic misconduct occurred?
Follow Chico State's applicable academic integrity and student conduct procedures.
Do not rely on the Proctorio flag alone when making a determination.
Support
Where can faculty get help?
For help configuring or using Proctorio in Canvas, contact the Technology & Learning Program.
For Proctorio-specific technical issues, use Proctorio Support.
What support information should I give students?
Students should know:
- How to contact Proctorio Support for technical problems with the extension, pre-checks, webcam, microphone, screen sharing, or Proctorio error messages
- How to contact the instructor for questions about exam rules, deadlines, attempts, grading, or permitted materials
- Where to obtain campus support for Canvas access, equipment, accessibility, or other university services
See Proctorio Student FAQ for student-facing preparation and support guidance.
Related Articles
Still need help? Faculty and staff can reach out to the Technology & Learning Program. Students can reach out to the Center for Technology Equity.
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