Taking a test in your PJs from the comfort of your couch might sound like a dream compared to sitting in a classroom with a teacher eyeballing your every move. For many students, the idea of a more relaxed testing environment can help ease nerves and reduce pressure.
But as online classes have become more common, so has the use of proctoring services - tools that colleges and universities use to monitor students during exams.
Online proctoring companies offer a range of services, some of which students may find invasive, from browser monitoring and room scanning to eye movement tracking and facial detection, just to name a few.
Being unfairly labeled a cheater based on nothing more than suspicious eye movements can have serious consequences for a student's future. At the Lento Law Firm, we fight to ensure that schools treat these accusations with the seriousness they deserve, demanding a full and fair investigation before any judgment is made.
If you or your child is facing academic misconduct allegations, call us today at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form to get the support you need.
What is Respondus?
Respondus is a proctoring service that offers a surveillance-based system to monitor students while they complete a test. Students install Respondus on their computers before testing begins. Then, for the duration of the exam, Respondus uses the student's camera to record the room and monitor the student for suspicious behavior. Afterward, flagged events and proctoring results are available for the instructor to review.
What makes Respondus unique among other proctoring services is that it also offers LockDown Browser, a custom browser that literally locks down the student's computer for the duration of the test. Students cannot print, copy, paste, access other applications, or search the internet during an exam.
Being Flagged by Respondus
Red flags are reported by Respondus and sent directly to the instructor following the exam. Students do not have access to the results or the video recording captured by Respondus, which can make them feel both violated and powerless.
It is then up to each instructor to decide how to proceed with the red flag report. Something as simple as a student getting up to stretch during a lengthy exam, using the restroom, or even making a certain eye movement can trigger a red flag. Some instructors may reach out to the student for an explanation, while others may not, and may fail the student based solely on an assumption.
My Test Was Flagged. Now, What Should I Do?
Facing a Respondus violation can be nerve-wracking, especially when you don't have access to the report or video footage. In most cases, the only information you'll receive comes from your instructor, who may or may not fully understand the technology or interpret the situation accurately.
If you've been accused of cheating by Respondus, don't panic. Staying calm is the first and most important step. Remaining composed will help you process what's being said, respond thoughtfully, and avoid making the situation worse.
Here's a step-by-step guide to follow if you're facing a Respondus accusation and how to protect your academic record and reputation:
- Don't Go on the Defense: Your instinct will probably be to defend yourself, but tread carefully, anything you say can later be used against you. You may be surprised how easy it is to incriminate yourself, even in the most innocent situation. If your instructor asks questions, answer as simply and straightforwardly as you can. Always remain calm and respectful.
- Learn All You Can: Instead of making defensive statements, focus on asking questions. Take notes or record the interaction, if possible. Your goal is to find out everything you can about the accusation.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any supporting documents, screenshots, or other evidence that can support your defense.
- Review Your School's Honor Code: Carefully read over your school's cheating or academic misconduct code. This can help you better understand what policy you may have violated.
- Don't Discuss Your Case with Friends: It can be very tempting to vent to friends and fellow students about the incident, but it's not in your best interest to do so. You may accidentally incriminate yourself without even realizing it.
- Don't Discuss Your Case Online: Do not share your experience online. Again, this is not in your best interest. Anything you write or say online may later be used against you.
- Consult a Student Defense Attorney: It is in your best interest to consult an attorney sooner rather than later. Don't put the stress on yourself to navigate Respondus' flagging system and your school's complex academic misconduct policies alone. Not only is this stressful during a traumatic accusation, it's unnecessary. Help is available.
Accused by Respondus? Don't Face It Alone.
Being accused of misconduct by Respondus can threaten everything you've worked for, your education, your reputation, and your future career. Trying to defend yourself alone isn't just overwhelming; it can also put you at greater risk.
At the Lento Law Firm, our experienced Student Defense Team has successfully guided countless students through these challenges, helping them protect their records and stay on track toward their goals.
Protect Your Future. Take Action Now. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888.535.3686 or submit a contact form to get the support you need.
