1.1 What is Invigilation, and Why is it Necessary?
What is Invigilation?
As defined in Fanshawe College Policy A131: Evaluation of Student Learning, invigilation, also known as proctoring, is the process of securing and supervising an examination to ensure it is conducted fairly and according to the rules.
Invigilators, also known as proctors, are responsible for:
- Monitoring students during an exam
- Ensuring the exam environment remains quiet and orderly
- Assisting students with issues such as clarifying instructions or addressing technical problems
Students choose Fanshawe College to receive a quality education. Invigilation ensures students are evaluated under the same conditions, helping to maintain the validity of the exam results and that the results accurately reflect each student’s knowledge and abilities. As a result, Fanshawe’s invigilation procedures benefit everyone involved.
Why is Invigilation Necessary?
Benefits for Students
- Ensures fairness between students during an evaluation. Cheating or dishonest practice during a test is prohibited, and hard work and preparation are rewarded.
- Maintains a controlled environment that limits distractions so students feel comfortable and can focus on completing their test(s).
- Provides student assistance with issues arising during an exam, such as clarifying instructions, addressing technical problems, or responding to health concerns.
Benefits for Faculty
- Prevents cheating by closely observing students during the test, which makes it difficult for anyone to engage in dishonest behaviour.
- Enforces exam rules through clear communication of expectations and prevention of the use of unauthorized materials.
- Detects and addresses irregularities during an exam by actively monitoring test candidates and providing incident documentation to faculty.
- Sets an ethical tone by evaluating students under the same conditions and ensuring that the test results accurately reflect each student’s knowledge and abilities.
Benefits for Fanshawe College
Promotes and maintains trust and integrity, which are essential for the College, Fanshawe alums and community partners. Effective invigilation ensures fair and transparent processes and reinforces Fanshawe’s credibility as a top-tier post-secondary institution.
