Direct answer
Live proctoring for an online MCQ (or mixed computer-based) exam means authorised staff watch active sittings in near real time — usually a wall of webcam tiles — and can open a candidate, review recent snapshots, and intervene (for example send a warning) before the attempt ends.
How it works
The candidate sits a digital paper in a browser. The platform requires camera access when the quiz is configured for proctoring. Snapshots or a live frame update the monitor. Staff see who is still in the exam, how many snapshots exist, and can act under the institution’s rules (warn, pause policy, or reset a sitting after final submit when allowed).
Key considerations
- Live ≠ automated-only. Automated modes flag signals without a human on every tile.
- Privacy: webcam images are personal data; publish exam instructions and retention rules.
- Do not confuse with on-screen marking of handwritten answer books.
Avid’s approach
Avid LMS proctored online exams include Live Exam Monitor (tiles, live view, snapshots, warn, reset). Product overview: Avid LMS. Deep dive: Live Exam Monitor in Avid LMS.
FAQ
What is live proctoring?
Live proctoring is real-time human supervision of an online exam sitting, typically through a webcam wall, with the ability to intervene (for example send a warning) during the attempt.
Does live proctoring prove a student did not cheat?
No. It raises detection and deterrence and creates an intervention trail. Academic honesty still rests on statutes, instructions, and institutional judgement.
Is live proctoring the same as OSM?
No. Live proctoring supervises a computer-based sitting. On-screen marking evaluates scanned handwritten scripts after a paper exam.