New WGU Proctoring. Western Governors University (WGU) has recently transitioned to using ProctorU for its proctoring and exam services, replacing the previous system, Examity. This change has introduced new rules and procedures, along with some challenges and frustrations for students. In this post, we’ll explore the details of the new ProctorU system, compare it with the old Examity system, and discuss whether it’s possible to bypass this new method.
WGU Proctored Exams Rules with ProctorU
With the switch to ProctorU, WGU has implemented a set of rules to ensure exam integrity. Here’s what you need to know:
- Identity Verification
You must provide a valid photo ID and complete a live identity verification process. This involves taking a live photo through your webcam to match the ID and confirm your identity. - Environment Check
ProctorU requires you to conduct a 360-degree room scan using your webcam before starting the exam. This scan ensures there are no unauthorized materials or individuals in your exam environment. - Technical Requirements
Your computer must meet specific technical standards, including having a working webcam, microphone, and a stable internet connection. ProctorU also requires you to use a compatible browser and disable any unauthorized applications or extensions. - Exam Monitoring
During the exam, ProctorU uses a combination of live proctors and AI tools to monitor your activities. Your screen will be recorded, and you need to stay within the camera’s view for the entire duration of the exam. - Integrity Rules
You are prohibited from using external resources, communicating with others, or accessing unauthorized materials during the exam.
Student Frustrations with ProctorU
The transition to ProctorU has been met with considerable frustration among students. Common issues include:
- Technical Problems
Many students report significant technical difficulties with ProctorU, such as compatibility issues, software glitches, and connectivity problems. Comments on YouTube reflect widespread dissatisfaction:- “I re-scheduled my test 3 times because the browser is unusable.” – @probrickgamer
- “Day 7 of not being able to take my exam due to issues with the platform.” – @camerondavidson3765
- Privacy Concerns
The extensive monitoring by ProctorU, including continuous webcam use and screen recording, has raised privacy concerns. Some students feel that the new system is intrusive:- “The fact that I’m a week into my program and suddenly have a new stipulation of installing malware on my device feels like a significant betrayal.” – Anonymous Commenter
- Learning Curve and Usability
The new system’s interface and procedures have been described as less intuitive and more challenging compared to Examity:- “ProctorU is horrible. The only problem I had with Examity was the language barrier with the proctor.” – @tezwill5876
- “ProctorU took nearly an hour to start the exam, and had issues with browser bugs and connectivity.” – @Momobot93
- Increased Fees
Some students have reported higher fees with ProctorU, adding financial strain:- “I may legitimately have chosen another school had I known they were changing to go down this route.” – Anonymous Commenter
Comparison: ProctorU vs. Examity
Examity was the previous proctoring service used by WGU. Here’s a comparison between Examity and ProctorU:
Examity:
- Pre-Exam Setup
Students scheduled exams and completed a system check. Identity verification involved a photo ID and live webcam check. - Monitoring
Examity used live proctors and screen recording, with live technical support to resolve issues promptly. - Technical Support
Examity provided reliable technical support, minimizing exam interruptions.
ProctorU:
- Enhanced AI Monitoring
ProctorU incorporates advanced AI tools for detecting suspicious behavior, improving exam security but also causing technical difficulties. - Updated Features
While ProctorU’s system includes updated features, students have reported it as less user-friendly compared to Examity. - Increased Intrusiveness
ProctorU’s monitoring is more invasive, with continuous webcam and screen recording, which some students find uncomfortable. - Technical Challenges
ProctorU has been associated with various technical issues, including compatibility problems and connectivity issues, which have been a source of frustration:- “ProctorU is trash to the next level.” – @emshowupfitness9793
The Old Software: Examity
Before switching to ProctorU, WGU used Examity for proctoring. Here’s a look at how Examity worked:
- Pre-Exam Setup
Students scheduled their exams and completed a system check to ensure compatibility with Examity’s software. - Identity Verification
Similar to ProctorU, Examity required identity verification through a photo ID and live webcam check. - Monitoring During the Exam
Examity used live proctors and screen recording to monitor exams. Students needed to maintain a clean workspace and avoid using unauthorized materials. - Technical Support
Examity offered live technical support during the exam, which helped resolve issues quickly and minimized interruptions.
How ProctorU Compares to Examity
The new ProctorU system offers several changes compared to Examity:
Improvements:
- Enhanced AI Monitoring
ProctorU incorporates advanced AI tools for better detection of suspicious behavior, potentially increasing exam security. - Updated Interface
ProctorU’s system includes updated features and functionalities designed to streamline the proctoring process.
Drawbacks:
- Technical Difficulties
The new system has introduced technical issues, such as compatibility problems and connectivity issues, which can disrupt the exam process. - Increased Intrusiveness
ProctorU’s monitoring is more invasive, with continuous webcam and screen recording, which some students find overly intrusive. - Learning Curve
The transition to ProctorU has a steeper learning curve, making it more challenging for students to adapt to the new system. New WGU Proctoring
Is It Possible to Bypass ProctorU?
While ProctorU aims to provide robust exam security, some students may wonder if it’s possible to bypass the system. Here’s what you need to know:
- Remote Access Software
Some students attempt to use remote access software to have someone else take the exam. This method can be effective but is risky, as ProctorU’s system is designed to detect such activities. - Screen and Webcam Manipulation
Techniques to manipulate the webcam feed or screen recording exist but are complex and often lead to detection if not executed perfectly. - Environmental Manipulation
Hiding unauthorized materials before the room scan is possible but requires careful planning. Any suspicious behavior during the exam could lead to detection. - Technical Exploits
Exploiting technical glitches or failures might offer temporary relief but can result in serious penalties if discovered.
Note: Attempting to bypass ProctorU’s proctoring system is highly discouraged. The risks of being caught and facing academic penalties far outweigh any potential benefits. It’s always best to follow the rules and prepare properly for your exams.
Conclusion: Navigating the New ProctorU System
The switch to ProctorU at WGU has brought both opportunities and challenges. While ProctorU offers enhanced security features, it has also introduced frustrations related to technical issues and privacy concerns. Comparing it with the previous Examity system, ProctorU has its pros and cons.
If you’re struggling with the new system, consider reaching out to WGU support for assistance. If you’re also interested in bypassing the proctoring system, please go through our blog post on Is It Possible to Bypass ProctorU Proctoring Software? Absolutely – Here’s How!
For more tips and resources on managing your exams, visit Grade Hustler for guides and study materials that can help you succeed. New WGU Proctoring
