Proctoring Features
CherryFill includes basic proctoring features to help maintain exam integrity.
Tab Switch Tracking
When tab switch tracking is enabled, CherryFill monitors when respondents navigate away from the exam page:
- Tab Blur: Recorded when the respondent switches to another tab or window
- Tab Focus: Recorded when the respondent returns to the exam
What Gets Tracked
| Event | Triggered When |
|---|---|
| Left Page | Respondent clicks away from the exam, switches tabs, or minimizes the browser |
| Returned to Page | Respondent returns focus to the exam page |
Viewing Tab Switch Data
Tab switch information appears in several places:
- Submissions Table: Shows the total count of tab switches
- Submission Detail: Shows the exact timeline of when switches occurred
- CSV Export: Includes tab switch count for each submission
Enabling Tab Tracking
Tab switch tracking is enabled by default for all new timers. You can toggle it in the timer settings:
- Go to your timer's edit page
- Find 'Tab Switch Tracking' in the Proctoring section
- Toggle on or off as needed
Activity Timeline
Each submission includes a detailed activity timeline showing:
- When the exam was started
- All tab blur/focus events with timestamps
- When the exam was submitted
Access the timeline by clicking on any submission to open the detail modal, then scroll to the 'Activity Timeline' section.
Understanding the Data
Important Context
Tab switches don't necessarily indicate cheating. Legitimate reasons include:
- Using allowed reference materials
- Working on multiple monitors
- Checking a calculator or notes app
- System notifications appearing
Flagging Submissions
If you notice concerning patterns in a submission, you can flag it for review:
- Open the submission detail modal
- Click 'Flag Submission'
- The submission will be marked with a red flag badge
Flagged submissions:
- Appear with a 'Flagged' badge in submission lists
- Can be filtered in the Activity page
- Include a flag indicator in CSV exports
You can remove the flag at any time by clicking 'Remove Flag' in the submission detail.
Best Practices
Set Clear Expectations
Use custom instructions to tell respondents what is and isn't allowed during the exam, including whether they can reference other materials.
Consider Context
A few tab switches may be normal. Look for patterns like excessive switches or switches right before difficult questions.
Use Duration Data
Combine tab switch data with time analysis. Did the respondent finish suspiciously fast? Take unusually long on certain sections?
Limitations
Current proctoring features are designed for basic integrity monitoring. They do not include:
- Camera monitoring or screenshots
- Full-screen enforcement
- Copy/paste detection
- AI-based cheating detection
These features may be added in future updates for higher-tier plans.