Western Governors University (WGU) has long been a leader in flexible, student-centered education. However, the ongoing reliance on ProctorU and its Guardian browser has raised significant concerns about privacy, functionality, and equity in the testing process. Many students report recurring issues such as technical malfunctions, poor tech support, and intrusive proctoring practices. We, the undersigned, urge WGU to replace ProctorU with a more reliable, student-friendly solution and to offer physical testing options through partners.

Key Issues with ProctorU and the Guardian Browser

Privacy Concerns with the Guardian Browser

• Excessive Access to Personal Devices
  The Guardian browser requires extensive permissions, including control over the user’s desktop, access to peripheral devices like webcams and microphones, and monitoring activity across all open applications. This level of access is invasive and unnecessary and raises serious concerns about data security and student privacy.
• Lack of Transparency and Control
  Students are often unaware of what data is being collected, how it is stored, or who can access it. This lack of transparency leaves students vulnerable to potential misuse of personal information, including unauthorized data sharing with third parties.
• Mandatory Browser Restrictions
  The Guardian browser restricts access to other applications during exams, which can inadvertently interfere with essential assistive technologies used by students with disabilities. This practice not only invades privacy but also creates accessibility barriers, violating principles of equitable education.
• Invasion of Personal Space
  ProctorU's video and audio monitoring mandates that students expose their private living environments to proctors. For many, this feels like an intrusion into their personal lives, compounded by the knowledge that video feeds are being recorded and stored, potentially without sufficient safeguards against breaches.
• Security Vulnerabilities
  The Guardian browser’s invasive permissions may expose students' devices to additional security risks, such as increased susceptibility to malware or unauthorized third-party access. Given that students often use personal computers, this creates a significant and unnecessary risk.

Technical and Operational Issues

• Software Malfunctions
  The Guardian browser frequently conflicts with other applications, leading to crashes, exam freezes, or forced restarts. These interruptions waste time, disrupt focus and increase anxiety during exams.
• Inadequate Tech Support
  ProctorU’s technical support is widely criticized for being unresponsive or ineffective. Students report long wait times, unresolved issues, and being referred back to WGU without meaningful solutions.
• Inconsistent and Unprofessional Proctoring

Students cite repeated instances of poor communication, unnecessary interruptions, and delays caused by proctors. These behaviors undermine the testing experience and contribute to student dissatisfaction.

Proposed Solutions

To address these pressing concerns, WGU must take decisive action to replace ProctorU and the Guardian browser with more secure, student-friendly solutions:

• Adopt Less Invasive Virtual Proctoring Options
  Transition to platforms like Examity, Honorlock, or Proctorio, which offer privacy-respecting and reliable services. These alternatives use advanced AI, reduce human intervention, and avoid excessive permissions, creating a smoother and less intrusive testing experience.
• Provide Physical Testing Center Options
  Partner with Pearson VUE or similar organizations to allow students to take exams in secure, professional environments. Pearson VUE’s widespread network of testing locations ensures accessibility and eliminates the need for invasive proctoring software.
• Explore AI-Powered Automated Proctoring
  Automated proctoring systems maintain exam integrity through AI-based monitoring, eliminating the need for live proctors and minimizing privacy concerns. These systems can also reduce costs and scheduling complications.
• Prioritize Student Privacy in Vendor Contracts
  Any new proctoring service must implement clear, student-friendly privacy policies, limit data collection to essentials, and comply with stringent data protection laws such as GDPR and CCPA.
• Solicit Student Feedback in the Decision Process
  Create a student advisory panel to evaluate and test potential proctoring solutions, ensuring the final selection aligns with the needs and concerns of the WGU community.
   

Why Change Is Urgent

The current proctoring system erodes trust, invades privacy, and creates unnecessary barriers to success. Students have a right to a fair and equitable testing experience that does not require sacrificing their privacy or dealing with unreliable systems.

By replacing ProctorU and the Guardian browser, WGU can reaffirm its commitment to innovation, equity, and respect for its students. We urge the university to act swiftly and adopt testing solutions prioritizing privacy, security, and the student experience.