The anti-cheating software, called Proctorio, was so popular that it took off like wildfire. The kids were stuck at home and the teachers needed a way to hold them accountable.
A recent study shows that kids are able to get around the program's capabilities. The tech isn't much more than a placebo.
Researchers from the University of Twente in the Netherlands presented the study. The sample size was small, with just 30 students and college-aged kids working towards bachelor degrees in computer science.
The results were striking even though they weren't perfect. Six students were asked to cheat, five were asked not to cheat, and the rest were told to take the test honestly.
Out of 6 students, only one was caught cheating by a human agent, and that's the most important finding. Based on this experience, the sensitivity of Proctorio should be zero.
It was very bad. The researchers think that Proctorio works as a placebo. Even if it isn't effective, the fact that it is there seems to deter some kids from trying to cheat. There is a feather in your cap.
The case for their software was supported by multiple studies offered by Proctorio. Vice pointed out that there were no studies that tested the effectiveness of anti-cheating software.
The software's other problems aren't limited to not working. There's been a lot of controversy over privacy concerns and discrimination in the space, as well as whether it's wise for students to be surveilled all the time. Considering the cost, how much is a placebo really worth?
Scientists asked students to try to fool anti-cheating software. The people did. Vice news
The Anti-Cheating Software that Scans Students' Rooms is Unconstitutional.
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