We want to share an important update regarding the Side Camera feature within Honorlock Proctoring.
Instructional Technology Support has received multiple support requests related to Side Camera implementation. After careful evaluation, we have determined that, in its current state, the feature does not yet provide the level of consistency and reliability needed to ensure a smooth and equitable testing experience for students. The wide range of student hardware and setup variables can create barriers that are difficult to resolve during high-stakes testing situations.
To help ensure a stable and supported testing environment, the Division of Digital Learning has removed access to the Side Camera feature.
This decision reflects our assessment of current usability and reliability considerations. Honorlock has indicated that they are developing a dedicated application designed to streamline and improve the Side Camera experience. Quality assurance testing is already planned once this updated solution becomes available, and we will reevaluate enabling the feature for instructional use at that time.
This change does not negatively impact faculty ability to administer secure, proctored exams for high-stakes assessments. Online proctoring tools, including Honorlock, remain widely recognized across higher education as a best practice for supporting academic integrity in fully online courses. The Division of Digital Learning encourages implementation approaches that balance exam security with the flexibility students reasonably expect in asynchronous courses.
Recommended best practices include:
As a reminder, asynchronously delivered online courses may not include required synchronous activities or assessments unless prior approval has been granted under university policy (LMS 02.04.18). Approved exceptions must be documented in the course syllabus at the start of the semester.
We appreciate your continued commitment to academic integrity and student success. Please contact the Division of Digital Learning if you would like assistance reviewing proctoring strategies or implementing recommended best practices.