Spark Asher Academy: Proctored Exams Ensuring Academic Integrity

At Spark Asher Academy, we believe in fostering a strong academic foundation for our students. To prepare you for success in university and beyond, our courses require proctored closed-book unit tests and final exams.

Why Proctored Exams?

Proctored exams uphold academic integrity by:

• Maintaining Time Limits: A proctor ensures you adhere to designated test durations.
• Preventing Unauthorized Resources: Notes, online tools, or external help are not permitted during exams.
• Preparing for University: Proctored exams mirror the testing environment you’ll encounter in post-secondary studies.
• Upholding Ministry of Education Standards: We adhere to Ministry guidelines to maintain good academic standing.

What is a Proctor?

A proctor is a supervisor who observes you during your exam to ensure proper test procedures are followed. You can choose your proctor, subject to approval by Spark Asher Academy.

How Does Exam Proctoring Work?

• Complete Unit Tasks: Before requesting a proctored exam, ensure all unit assignments are finished.
• Contact Your Teacher: Inform your teacher you’re ready to write the exam and if you’ll be using our online proctoring service or arranging your own proctor.
• In-Person Proctor (Optional):
• Choose a qualified proctor who meets the criteria outlined below.
• Have your proctor complete the OES Proctor Form (available in your course materials).
• Provide your teacher with the completed form for approval (48-72 hours prior to your exam).
• Online Proctoring Service (Optional):
• Schedule your exam at least two days in advance through the Spark Asher Academy portal.
• Pay the associated fee for the online proctoring service.
• Ensure you have the required equipment (webcam, microphone, computer, printer, scanner/scanner app, government ID).

Who Can Be an In-Person Proctor?

Approved in-person proctors must be:

• Unrelated to you by blood or marriage
• Not a student at any level
• Not your tutor
• Preferably hold a university degree or college designation

Examples of suitable proctors include:

• High school teachers, librarians, or guidance counselors
• Neighbors, colleagues, or managers (who meet the criteria above)

Exam Procedures:

• The proctor receives detailed exam instructions from your teacher.
• You take the exam under the proctor’s supervision.
• After completing the exam, the proctor scans and sends it securely to your teacher within 24-48 hours.

Online Proctoring Service:

• Your exam session will be recorded for security purposes.
• You will be scanned virtually using your webcam to ensure a secure testing environment.
• Upon completion, you’ll scan your exam with the proctor’s live observation and email it directly to their address.