How does Nile Online ensure honest and fair online exams?

Nile Online uses The Invigilator, a remote proctoring application, to help maintain academic integrity during online exams.

We use The Invigilator, a secure remote proctoring application, to help maintain academic integrity during your online exams. Just as in-person exams have invigilators to ensure fairness, The Invigilator serves as your digital exam supervisor. 

Why are we using The Invigilator? As more learning moves online, we want to ensure your degree maintains its value and credibility. This platform helps us: 

• Create a fair testing environment for all students. 
• Protect the academic integrity of your qualification. 
• Give you the flexibility to take exams from approved locations. 
• Provide a simple, straightforward exam experience. 

Think of The Invigilator as your virtual exam room – it creates a secure space where you can demonstrate your knowledge while ensuring everyone follows the same rules. The platform is designed to be unobtrusive while giving you and your fellow students confidence that your hard work is being properly recognised. 

How invigilation works 

Every exam begins with a simple access code - think of it as your digital entrance ticket. The Invigilator will collect the following to ensure a fair testing environment for everyone: 

• Images and short videos from your webcam 
• Audio through your microphone 
• Screenshots of your work 

Don't worry - this information is handled securely and only used to maintain academic integrity. After your exam, our AI system reviews the recordings to note any potential concerns. A human invigilator then carefully reviews these notes, ensuring that no automatic decisions are made about your exam. They will share concerns with your Faculty team for final review if any potential malpractice is identified. 

We've designed this process to be as smooth as possible while protecting the value of your academic achievements. Remember, the goal isn't to catch anyone out—it's to create a level playing field where everyone can demonstrate their knowledge fairly. 

At least two days before an exam 

1. Review the Student User Guide and Student FAQ. 
2. Install or update The Invigilator app. 
   1. Mac OS: https://apps.apple.com/za/app/the-invigilator-pc/id6446768969
   2. Windows: https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9PPRSVPG991X
3. Test your device settings: 
   1. Video 
   2. Audio 
   3. Screen capture 
4. Practice an exam experience here: https://learning.nileonline.com.ng/enroll/9BJAB8 
5. The Invigilator’s dedicated student support team is on hand to help you via WhatsApp messaging with any issues you face. Add their number to your Contacts before the exam so you’re not searching for it under stress! 

We want your exam experience to be smooth and distraction-free, so it’s important to iron out any possible issues before the exam day! 

15 minutes before an exam 

1. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you won't be interrupted. 
2. Get your workspace ready: 
   1. Connect your laptop charger. 
   2. Put away all other electronic devices. 
   3. Have a clear water bottle nearby.
3. Use the bathroom before starting. 
4. Launch The Invigilator app and run through all technical checks. 
5. When it's time to begin: 
   1. Click the exam link to open it in your course. 
   2. Maximise the exam window for the best viewing experience and focus. 

During the exam 

To help ensure a smooth exam experience, please follow these simple guidelines: 

Keep The Invigilator running 

• Keep the app open throughout your exam. 
• Respond promptly to selfie requests and other alerts. 
• The system automatically logs when application windows are closed, so try to avoid this. 

Basic exam rules 

• Work independently (no conversations with others). 
• Use only your exam device. 
• Stay at your workspace unless taking a brief break. 
• Keep water nearby if needed. 

Need a bathroom break?

We understand breaks may be necessary! Here's what to do: 

• On campus: A staff member will escort you. 
• Remote location: Send a quick WhatsApp message to your invigilator before stepping away. 
• Please keep breaks to 5 minutes or less. 

Finishing your exam

When you're done, just two simple steps: 

1. Submit your exam in the Learning Zone. 
2. Click "Finish Assessment" in The Invigilator. 

What to do if your exam is flagged 

We understand that having your exam results questioned can be stressful. Here's a clear explanation of the process and your options if The Invigilator flags potential concerns during your exam. 

Initial review 

If there are concerns about your exam, our Faculty team will carefully review all evidence from The Invigilator. They'll communicate their decision to you promptly. While we hope this never happens, if your exam fails the invigilation review, you'll receive a 0% score. However, this isn't the end of the road - you have options. 

Your right to appeal 

We believe in fairness and giving every student a chance to explain their situation. You have one week to submit a written appeal to the Student Success team. Once you submit your appeal, we'll arrange a meeting where you can: 

• Review the evidence with our team. 
• Share your perspective on what happened. 
• Ask any questions you might have. 

After this meeting, the Student Success team will work closely with your Faculty to carefully consider your case and reach a final decision. We'll communicate this decision to you in writing, along with clear next steps.