UWI Postpones Use of Online Proctoring Software Amid Student Concerns

The University of the West Indies’ Academic Programming and Delivery Division (APAD) has announced the postponement of the planned rollout of online proctoring for quizzes in Semester 2, 2024–2025.

The original memo had informed students in Levels 0 and 1 courses, as well as those enrolled in AI-assisted courses, that they would be required to use the Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor for upcoming quizzes. However, following feedback—particularly from the Guild President and his executive team—the university has opted to delay implementation.

“We sincerely regret any confusion or inconvenience caused,” the university stated in its April 7 memorandum. “Our collaborative conversations went a long way towards shedding light on pertinent considerations, from the student perspective.”

The APAD clarified that the decision to use online proctoring is not a retreat from its flexible learning approach developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather, it reflects a system-wide return to pre-pandemic assessment models, including in-person exams, as grace periods have ended across campuses.

“The use of Respondus for all Level 0 and Level 1 courses will now be rolled out with sufficient notice at the start of a semester,” APAD stated.

The university plans to write to the Chair of the Board for Undergraduate Studies (BUS) to request a phased introduction of the proctoring tool and outline the logistical and technical constraints that influenced the postponement.