Category: YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

  • November 21, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Pearl” Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes a new redesign for the Live Proctoring Dashboard, the option to assign custom flag levels for events, ability to take private proctoring notes within the Proctoring Video Player when reviewing results, new proctor settings – such as Audio Detection, Block Virtual Machines, and Block Applications – ability to create institution-wide Proctoring Global Profiles, a pre-assessment compatibility check, and a new UI redesign for blocking embedded content.

     

    1. Verity Live: New Dashboard for Live Proctoring
      Verity Live, a module within the YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform, has undergone a significant update to its dashboard, with an emphasis on adding new capabilities and user experience improvements. These changes provide a more intuitive and seamless navigation experience for proctors. Now, proctors can effortlessly explore various views, including:

      • Gallery: Conveniently view multiple live cameras within an improved dashboard panel
      • Screen View: Single-click to flip to view all proctored student’s screens
      • Student-Specific View: Select and focus on a single student’s view with a specialized full-screen view.



      A live proctoring view of Gallery, Scree, and Student view.

    2. Verity Live: Student-Specific View
      Expanding upon our Student-Specific View, this feature will allow proctors to direct their attention to a specific student during an assessment by simply selecting a student and accessing a full-screen view of the live recording to oversee a detailed perspective of the student’s testing environment.
      The proctor is viewing the environment of a students screen and webcam recording.
    3. Assign Custom Flag Levels for Events
      Instructors have the flexibility to tailor event flagging to meet their standards by assigning custom flag levels—Minor, Major, or Severe—for events recorded during proctored sessions. Additionally, instructors can choose to have certain events ignored by Verity by simply choosing not to flag an event.
    4. Proctoring Video Player Notetaking When Reviewing Sessions
      Complementing Verity’s automated event tracking and logging, when reviewing proctored assessments, instructors can now take notes directly within the Proctoring Video Player to manually keep track of important details in recorded sessions.
      An instructor writing a note for an assessment recording they are reviewing.
    5. New Event to Flag Audio Detection
      To ensure the integrity of a student’s testing environment, any loud audio occurrences during the assessment are automatically flagged if the Record Audio setting is enabled. This will allow assessment reviewers to focus on areas of concern, aiding in the detection of potential unauthorized assistance.
      A dog barking triggers an audio warning letting the student know they need to be in a quiet environment.
    6. New Lockdown App Setting: Block Virtual Machines
      Virtual machines provide students access to multiple operating systems on a single device, which can be used to bypass proctor settings. The Lockdown App will allow instructors to enable virtual machine detection to provide online integrity during proctored assessments. If a virtual machine is detected, this will prevent students from starting or continuing their assessment.
      Verity Proctor Settings showing the option to enable Block Virtual Machines.
    7. New Lockdown App Setting: Block Applications from Running
      Instructors now have more control during online proctored assessments with the new Block Application feature for the Lockdown App. By listing as many applications as desired, instructors can prevent students from using tools, such as social media and Microsoft apps, to provide distraction-free assessment.
      Restricted applications are shown that the Block Applications feature has detected.
    8. Create Global Profiles for Institution-Wide Proctor Settings
      To streamline access to proctor settings on a per-assessment basis that consistently meets requirements for a standardized online environment, administrators can now establish Global Profiles for their institution. Instructors will then have access to select these profiles to apply the required proctor settings to their assessments.
      The Global profiles feature within the Institution Settings in the Verity LTI app shows custom created profiles.
    9. Lockdown App: Pre-Assessment Compatibility Check
      Students requiring the use of the Lockdown App for their assessments will now have the opportunity to conduct a comprehensive pre-assessment compatibility check. This will provide students with information regarding the upcoming proctored assessment, including details on monitored actions, assessment restrictions, and verification of external devices, such as audio and video. This proactive step ensures students are well-prepared and their devices meet all necessary requirements before starting the assessment.
      The compatibility check is featured as a button on the main page of the Lockdown App when opened.
    10. Refreshed UI to Block Embedded Content
      Assessment administrators can allow students to access specific web pages during their assessment; however, some pages may incorporate embedded content from external sources. To provide students with a clear indication that they do not have access to this content, we’ve provided a refreshed UI that will only block the embedded areas, ensuring the rest of the web page is visible.
      Embedded content within a website is blocked letting the user know they don't have access to the content.
  • October 6, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Opal” Version Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes the option to enable the Lockdown App for Canvas New Quizzes, improved processing times for recordings, the option to adjust email settings at the institution level, and enhanced design and text elements across the platform. 


    1. Improved Design for the Verity Recording Panel

      The Verity Recording Panel now provides a new look and feel that seamlessly aligns with our brand development goals. Our intuitively refined design enhances the user experience, particularly when utilizing the Zoom feature.
      The Verity Recording Panel.
    2. Lockdown App now Supports Canvas New Quizzes
      Instructors who prefer to use “New Quizzes” in Canvas can now utilize the Lockdown App and its available settings to create the most reliable proctoring environment for online assessments.
      A new Quiz assessment being viewed inside the Lockdown App.
    3. Improved Processing Time for Recorded Assessments
      We’ve enhanced our processing efficiency to ensure that recorded assessments are available within the Results table in as little as a few minutes, whereas previously, instructors could have to wait up to three hours.
      A recording is selected from the Verity Results table.
    4. Adjust Email Settings at the Institution Level
      Verity provides daily emails detailing a summary of all proctored sessions submitted. This setting can now be disabled on an institutional level and available on a per-course basis.
      Option to disable emails in the Institution Settings.
    5. Delete Assessments from the Assessment Tab
      The Verity Portal offers a dedicated tab on the Automated Proctoring, Lockdown App, and Live Proctoring pages, presenting a convenient list of assessments. Instructors can access this Assessment tab for each proctoring tool, allowing them to delete assessments without the need to locate them within the LMS.
      Option to delete an assessment from the Assessment tab.
    6. Enhanced Design Elements and Text Across the Lockdown App

      To enhance the user experience, we have taken a step toward updating areas of improvement for the Lockdown App through incremental design elements and text adjustments. The refreshed UI and text have been curated to guide students through the essential proctor checks, ensuring a seamless transition into their assessments.
    7. Visual Refresh for the Verity Portal
      We have provided a new look and feel to the Verity Portal, providing a structured approach to the various Proctored Tools accessible from the left-side navigation menu. Instructors and students will be able to select their preferred tool, view setup steps, and have access to view and edit associated assessments.
      Highlight of the Verity navigation panel.
    8. Streamlined User-Friendly Updates
      As we continue to expand upon Verity, we’ve taken a close look at providing minor updates to existing features to help elevate the experience for instructors, proctors, and students. Below are some of these enhancements.

      • Microphone and Camera permissions will automatically be enabled on the Chrome browser.
      • When students register for a time slot, if only one option is available, it will be automatically selected.
      • Proctors will receive a notification if students leave a live proctoring session. 
  • September 5, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Nepheline”-Post Release Update to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed a hotfix to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This hotfix includes refined workflows for Canvas New Quizzes, students attempting to take a proctored assessment, ID Verification, and several optimization and bug fixes.


    1. Refined Verity Workflow for Canvas New Quizzes
      Previously, instructors were required to create a Canvas New Quiz before enabling Verity. We have refined this process to allow instructors to enable Verity as they are creating their quizzes.
      Enabling Verity in Canvas New Quizzes.
    2. Updates to the Student Workflow Interface for the Browser Extension and Lockdown App
      Text and icons are thoughtfully centered, providing a more intuitive and visually pleasing process as students prepare to access their assessments.
      Verity proctoring checklist.
    3. Refined Workflow for ID Verification
      In addition to our AI-enhanced ID verification, we offer students the convenience of capturing photos of their ID and face for manual verification by their proctors.
      Manual ID verification.
    4. Improved Facial Analysis Recognition Under Low-Light conditions
      We’ve improved our AI-enhanced ID verification to deliver faster and more dependable student identification, even in low-light conditions.
      Face ID has been detected.
    5. Optimization and Bug Fixes
      We have optimized the performance of YuJa Verity and made several bug fixes to improve the user experience. Highlighting some of these optimizations and fixes are:

      • Resolved issues related to color adjustment and user-friendly messages.
      • Enhanced the precision of Course and Institution reports.
      • Flagged events will accurately appear on recordings.
  • August 23, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Nepheline” Version Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes assessment support for the standalone proctoring for students not enrolled in the LMS, AI-enhanced ID verification support for the browser extension, improved third-party integration with Pearson, live monitoring of student devices during proctored tests, and a new UI to enhance the student workflow.

     

    1. Support for Proctoring Tests for Students Who Are Not Enrolled in the LMS
      In certain instances, institutions may require proctored assessments for individuals not enrolled in the institution’s LMS (example: an entrance examination or placement test to the institution). For these cases, instructors now have the option to create standalone proctored assessments that can be sent via email. These assessments are secured with a personalized password and require users to utilize the Lockdown App or Verity Browser Extension to create a secure testing environment. To learn more, please visit our guide on How to Create a Standalone Proctoring Session.
      An instructor creating a standalone assessment.
    2. Verity Browser Extension Now Supports AI-Enhanced ID Verification
      Our optional AI-enhanced facial recognition used for ID Verification is now available for the Verity Browser Extension. This integration allows instructors to seamlessly incorporate authentication capabilities into any proctored assessment with Verity, ensuring a secure match between the test taker and their uploaded ID. Keep in mind that the use of AI-enhanced ID verification is an optional workflow.
      ID Verification check.
    3. Improved Third-Party Assessment Integration with Pearson
      Verity has expanded its integration with Pearson Assessments with an even tighter and more streamlined third-party assessment integration. Unlike standalone third-party assessments, the improved Pearson integration streamlines the initiation process for students taking a third-party assessment in the Lockdown App.
      Pearson Logo
    4. Auto-Detection for Disconnected or Additional Devices Added
      During an assessment, Verity will monitor all external devices to ensure proctoring restrictions are adhered to. Should devices be added or removed during the assessment, Verity will pause the session and prompt the student to follow essential steps to continue with their assessment.
      Message indicating multiple monitors are detected.
    5. Revised Student Workflow for Taking Proctored Assessments
      To enhance the student workflow for taking proctored assessments through the browser extension, we’ve introduced a more intuitive UI that leads students through each step of the process. By guiding students through verifying proctoring restrictions, setting up their recording devices, and using AI-enhanced ID verification, Verity is committed to ensuring a seamless process for students accessing their proctored assessments. In upcoming releases, we will also implement this UI for the Lockdown App.
      Student completing the Verity setup before taking their assessment.
  • August 3, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – Minor Update Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed a minor update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update focuses on enhancing the user experience for the Verity Lockdown App and includes a modal to launch the app from any LMS, a new welcome page, and a comprehensive system check to ensure all requirements are met.

    1. Launch Lockdown App Assessments Directly from the LMS
      In response to providing students with seamless access to the Lockdown App, we have implemented an automatic launch feature. Now, when students click to begin their assessments within their Learning Management System, the Lockdown App will launch, if installed, granting them access to their assessments.
    2. First-Time Steps to Access Lockdown App Assessments
      For students attempting to access a Lockdown assessment for the first time, we have introduced a new, user-friendly two-step process. This process ensures quick access to the app by guiding them through a seamless download and launch experience that will give them direct access to their assessment.
    3. New Welcome Page for the Lockdown App
      In the event that the Lockdown App is unable to launch an active assessment, we have implemented helpful instructions in our new welcome page directing students to navigate to their Learning Management System and launch the assessment.
      The home page for the Verity Lockdown App.
    4. Detect System Requirements for the Lockdown App
      In certain situations, the Lockdown App might encounter permissions that need attention before launching an assessment. To address this, we have introduced a comprehensive system check that can be accessed when the Lockdown app is launched. This check will inform students of any unresolved issues that need to be addressed, ensuring that all necessary permissions are met before the assessment can begin.
      Experiencing issues text with a button to Click Here to check system compatibility.
  • July 19, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Microcline” Version Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes third-party assessment support for the Lockdown App and Live Proctoring, AI-enhanced ID verification for the Lockdown App, a new Assessment tab for the LTI app, presets settings for Automated Proctoring and the Lockdown App, and new analytics for Institution and Course Reports.

    1. Monitor Third-Party Assessments Integrated With Either Verity Lockdown App or Live Proctoring
      Building on our support for third-party assessments through the Verity Browser Extension, we now provide the monitoring of assessments through the Verity Lockdown App and Live Proctoring. The Lockdown App offers robust measures to enforce strict assessment protocols, including:

      • Access to only the Lockdown App during assessments.
      • Recording of user inputs, such as keystrokes and clipboard activity.
      • Disabling file downloads.

      In addition, Live Proctoring provides live video recordings of students as they complete their assessments. By choosing either one or both, users can create the most secure environment for their third-party assessments.

    2. Optional AI-Enhanced ID Verification
      The Verity Lockdown App provides ID verification through AI-enhanced facial recognition software. Users can seamlessly capture and upload an image of their ID and face, allowing Verity Lockdown to perform advanced analysis to determine the authenticity of the match. We expect to release a similar capability to the Verity Browser Extension in a near-term release.

    3. Access All Proctored Assessments Directly from the LMS-Integrated Verity App
      To optimize the student experience, we have established a centralized location that contains all proctored assessments. From the new Assessment tab, students can select their desired quiz or third-party assessment and access it through their browser or the Verity Lockdown App.

    4. Proctor Setting Presets for the Browser Extension and Lockdown App
      To conveniently access the preferred proctoring mode for assessments, we have added presets to select either Automated Proctoring or Lockdown App settings.
      Institution Reportshadow
    5. New Live Proctoring Analytics for Institution and Course Reports
      To provide a greater depth of analysis for our reports, institution reports will now feature a monthly count of quizzes taken and live sessions created. Administrators can review these analytics to determine the needs of their institution for various proctoring modes.
      Institution Report graph displaying total quizzes taken and live Sessions Joined.
      The Course Report offers a comprehensive table showcasing Students’ Live Experience, which includes a detailed list of registered sessions for each student and their corresponding attendance record.
      Students' Live Proctoring table
  • June 14, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Lazurite” Version Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes custom video tutorials for first-time users of Verity, the ability to monitor third-party assessments, Verity Live proctoring support, an integrated updated checker for the Verity Lockdown App, and a countdown timer for live assessment in the Verity Lockdown App.  

    1. Improved Proctoring Workflow of Third-Party Tools Across all LMSs 
      Previously, we presented Canvas users with the option to monitor third-party assessments using Verity. To improve the process, we now offer an integrated system within the Verity LTI app, which allows users to seamlessly add assessments and apply proctor settings to ensure a secure environment. This approach enables all Learning Management Systems supported by Verity to benefit from its comprehensive monitoring capabilities during students’ assessments for virtually any third-party tool. To learn how to use this feature, please visit our guide on Creating a Proctored Third-Party Assessment with YuJa Verity.
      The Verity Assessment tab featuring the option to add a third-party tool.

    2. New LMS-Specific “First Time User” Video Tutorials for Students
      Starting a Verity proctored assessment is easier than ever with our new LMS-specific video tutorials integrated right into the LMS. These videos have been specifically designed to assist first-time students in effortlessly navigating the Verity authentication process. With our user-friendly interface and step-by-step guidance, students can now start their assessments with ease. With these steps in place, we’re committed to guiding students through their proctored experience, ensuring assessments are started in a timely manner.


      Verity Authentication steps.
    3. Enable the Verity Lockdown App for Live Proctoring Sessions
      In continuing to provide the most secure environment for proctors and students, our new Verity Lockdown App works seamlessly with Verity Live proctoring. By offering strict video-recording measures through the Verity Lockdown App, proctors can be assured students are unable to end their recordings during their assessment.
      Live Proctoring in the Verity Lockdown App.
    4. Integrated Update Checker for the Verity Lockdown App
      To provide the most up-to-date version of the Verity Lockdown App, we now automatically check to ensure that the latest release is installed. If the application is outdated, an automated message will present users with the option to update the Verity Lockdown App.
      Apple update Checker for the Verity Lockdown App.
    5. New Countdown Timer for Live Assessments in the Verity Lockdown App
      To enhance the live assessment experience in the Verity Lockdown App, students will be presented with a countdown timer when entering their assessments early. This feature ensures that students have clear and accurate information about the exact start time of their assessments.
      Countdown timer for Verity live proctoring.

  • April 28, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Kainite” Version Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes the beta version for Verity Lockdown, monitoring external tools with Verity, the option to create practice tests, and a new Assessment tab to view all tests.

    1. New Verity Lockdown App (Beta) Available as Part of Standard Offering
      Building on the capability of our Verity Chrome extension, the Verity Lockdown Browser sets a new standard in secure testing for remote proctoring. By using an application-based testing environment grants us the freedom and flexibility to surpass the limitations of third-party browser extensions, allowing us to more deeply monitor the activity of students.

      The browser will prevent students from viewing other applications on their device and enforce strict measures to prevent common methods of bypassing proctor settings. This feature can easily be accessed and enabled for each test, allowing the instructor to decide the level of security they wish to apply on a per-test basis. The beta launch will only be supported for Canvas, with the full launch being available to Blackboard SaaS, D2L Brightspace, and Moodle users.
      Verity Lockdown Browser

    2. Dedicated Workflow to Create Practice Verity Tests in Canvas and D2L Brightspace
      Verity now offers an improved workflow to launch practice tests for instructors seeking to familiarize themselves with our Platform’s proctored test functionality. With a click of a button, Verity automatically generates a test complete with predefined Proctor Settings and curated questions. To learn how to create a practice test, please visit our support guide for Canvas or D2L Brightspace. Our next release will provide Blackboard SaaS and Moodle users with practice tests.
      The practice quiz button located within the Assessment tab of the Verity LTI app.
    3. Monitor External Tool Assessments with Verity
      Verity can be enabled for assessments embedded as external tools within Canvas. This significant enhancement enables instructors to seamlessly create quizzes and assignments outside their Learning Management System while taking advantage of Verity’s monitoring capabilities to record students as they complete their assessments. To learn how to incorporate External Tools with Verity, please visit our guide on How to Use Verity to Proctor a Third-Party Exam in Canvas.
      Icons of external tools and the Canvas assignment setup page.
    4. New Assessment Tab to View All Verity Tests
      Instructors can access a comprehensive list of all Verity-proctored tests associated with a course by navigating to the Assessment tab within the Verity LTI app. From there, instructors can access test results and navigate to test settings to make adjustments.
      The Assessment page for the Verity LTI app.
  • April 3, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – “Jade” Version Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed an update to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update includes enhancements to the UI for Verity Quiz settings, the ability to create and save custom quiz profiles, a new live-proctoring dashboard for students, an option to download proctored sessions, and support for Moodle version 4.1.

    1. Instructors Can Create and Save Custom Proctoring Profiles
      Instructors can now supports the creation of custom profiles for their proctoring settings. These profiles can be easily accessed and applied immediately to an upcoming proctored test.

    2. New Intuitive Button Layout for Proctor Settings
      We have updated the UI to provide a modern look for instructors and optimized how they view and interact with settings. By introducing an intuitive button layout, we have made it simple for instructors to navigate through all proctor settings with ease. With a few clicks, instructors can effortlessly apply desired settings to their proctored tests.
      A view of the proctor settings.

    3. Live-Proctoring Dashboard for Students
      Building upon our previous update for the instructor dashboard, the Live-Proctoring Dashboard for students provides steps to authenticate themselves for test sessions and a dynamic panel showcasing upcoming live tests. Students can easily register for upcoming sessions by selecting their preferred timeslot before the start of the test.

    4. Download Verity Recordings
      Instructors and admins now have the option to access a downloadable version of proctored sessions for offline viewing. A download link can be requested from the specific session they wish to review, and it will be conveniently delivered to their email inbox.
      Session Attempt Featuring the Download Request Sent dialogue box.
    5. Support for Moodle Version 4.1
      We are pleased to announce that Moodle admins can now enable Verity for Moodle version 4.1. To learn how to install Verity on your Moodle platform, please visit our guide on Integrating the Video Platform into Moodle. If Verity is already installed on your Moodle platform, no extra steps are required, and you may update your platform.
      Moodle 4.1 Logo
  • March 22, 2023

    YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform – Update RC20230317 Released to US, CAN, AUS, and EU Zones

    Australia Zone Canada Zone European Union Zone United States Zone YuJa Verity Test Proctoring Platform

    We have successfully pushed a release to all instances residing in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union. This update enhances the live-proctoring dashboard for instructors to create human-proctored tests. 

    1. Live-Proctoring Dashboard for Instructors
      The Live-Proctoring dashboard provides instructors with tools to manage online tests in real time. Keep track of Past, Upcoming, and Active sessions with a user-friendly interface that allows instructors to see when tests are scheduled and plan accordingly.
      Verity Instructor dashboard for human proctoring. Features panels for active, upcoming and past sessions along with a monthly calendar view of sessions.
    2. Create Human-Proctored Sessions in Three Simple Steps
      Creating a human-proctored session is easy with our simple three-step process:

      • Create Sessions
      • Assign Proctors
      • Confirm details

      By following these steps, instructors can create reliable and secure human-proctored test sessions. To learn more about creating a human-proctored session, please visit our guide on Creating a YuJa Verity Live-Proctoring Test.