NCE online proctoring guidelines
Candidates will notice two entities that have come together to make national certification examinations possible. These are:
- Canadian College of Health Information Management | certifying body
- Canadian Health Information Management Association | examination coordinators and online proctoring service
Computer requirements
To comply with live, online proctoring, the computer system requirements include:
- If using a laptop, ensure it is plugged in for the duration of the examination
- Desktop computer with an external 720p webcam or better and a built-in microphone or a laptop computer* with a built-in webcam and microphone (not a tablet, Chromebook, or cell phone)
- Single monitor (multiple monitors are not permitted)
- Built-in or external speakers (not headphones or ear buds)
- Hot spots are not permitted
- Disable any browser pop-up blockers
- Only one device is allowed
A consistent internet speed (25 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload is strongly recommended). Reduce usage of other users on the network (e.g., streaming, cloud syncing). IMPORTANT: Please conduct several internet speed tests in the days leading up to an examination to see that your connection is consistent: http://www.speedtest.net
Due to COVID-19, many candidates will be writing from home with other household members present. We ask that you limit the number of people who are connected to the internet to ensure there are no interruptions to the examination.
If writing within a workplace, please ensure the organization’s IT department has been made aware of these requirements and white lists the appropriate access.
| SPECIFICATIONS | PC | MAC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | i5 | i5 |
| Installed memory (RAM) | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Operating system | Windows 10 | macOs Catalina version 10.15.6 |
Writing with Mac computers
In order for proctoring software to work, your computer must be updated to the lasted macOS version, currently: MacOS Catalina version 10.15.6
- Go into system preferences
- Select ‘Security & Privacy’
- Click the lock icon to make changes
- In the panel on the left, select ‘Accessibility’
- Select ‘TeamViewer QuickSupport’
When your examination sitting time begins, there is a 30-minute timeframe to get setup with your proctor. They will guide you on how to begin screen recording.
*Important CCCS NCE note regarding Mac computers
As Folio software is incompatible with Mac computers, they are not permissible to use to write the CCCS NCE.
Test environment rules
The proctor will instruct candidates to complete a webcam scan of the room and make any adjustments accordingly.
| ACCEPTABLE TESTING ENVIRONMENT | UNACCEPTABLE TESTING ENVIRONMENT |
| Private room whereby the candidate is the only person present | Room with any other persons |
| Daylight quality lighting – preferably overhead | Lighting which comes from behind the candidate |
| Desk or table must be clean and free of materials* | Mobile phones, study notes |
| Environment suitable to focus | Music or television are not permitted to minimize distractions between the candidate and proctor |
Proctoring Software
3 days before examination: Make sure you can download and install the proctoring software on the computer planned for use during the examination. Some workplace computers have restrictions on the download and installation of new software. Click here to download. *You will need to re-download this software in Step 9 on examination day, as access is only valid while it is open on a computer.
Examination day: Re-download the proctoring software 15-minutes before your examination start time: This proctoring software is only valid for the time that it is open on your device. Please do not close this software. Click here to download.
Technical issues during examination
- The examination does not automatically submit when the timer reaches 0. Candidates will be provided a 5-minute warning from the proctor.
- If technical issues arise (e.g., loss of connection) the proctor will record this, and allow for the appropriate time to be added to the examination.
- Technical issues are addressed on a case-by-case basis. An investigation may be conducted if there is a need.
- Please reach out to [email protected] for any questions that you may have related to the technical requirements in preparation for your examination.
Rescheduling
Rescheduling an examination will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Last updated 2020-08-13