Extremely informational. I read previous accounts of the proctored exams but this is was much more detailed. I have TONS of books related to my field of study under my desk. I'll have to reconsider my current organization.
Thank you! Yeah some proctors seem to be very picky with what they will allow in your test space and others are pretty relaxed. Definitely doesn't hurt to be prepared for the picky ones:)
Kudos to you! I am just now finishing 6 years with WGU. I completed my BS-IT in 2015 and am now 1 task away from completing my MBA - IT Management degree. Things have changed a lot with WGU during my time with them. Most of my exams for the BS degree were taken at test centers that I would have to travel to. For my MBA, all of my exams were administered through ProctorU.
Jack Boughson wow congratulations, that is so exciting! Since you came back for your MBA I'm assuming you had a positive experience with WGU so awesome! It's so fun to hear previous experiences. This school seems like it really is ever-changing to fit the students needs! Congratulations again!
@@JackBoughson Congratulations on your accomplishments at WGU!!! I am about halfway through my BS - Business in IT Management right now, and I am planning on following up with an MBA in IT Management as well. It's great to see someone else that has taken a similar path.
Informative video.... Just a little head's up about ProctorU: I have used them many times for my college work. It does seem tedious, but really, it's no big deal. They have to follow these guidelines to keep business with these colleges. It may be annoying, but after doing it once just be prepared for that each time. Some ask more of you so just be prepared each time. For anyone not familiar with ProctorU, make sure of these following things each time: Have ID's ready. Have a clutter-free room. Close any blinds or curtains (I guess some ppl try to cheat and have others give them answers from outside? ). Don't talk to yourself during the test. I talk to myself when trying to work through problems and the proctor asked me to stop. lol. If you have children/others living with you, make sure they don't come into your room. I was informed of that and was told to make sure no one comes through or they would have to stop the exam. I have never had that issue, but it is helpful to know. Don't be nervous about someone watching you. It isn't like you can see them staring at you. I actually forget about them once I get into the exam. Also, use the restroom and get any drinks or what ever before it starts because many of your exams do not allow you to get up during the exam. No answering the door, the phone, tending to children or others in the house. This is very important. Just wanted to share my experience about ProctorU. I have used them a dozen times and I have had no problems...
I am thinking of going to this school but the proctor u is kind of a turn off for me as I want to earn my masters in nursing. I am greatly debating this school or staying in my current school.
This is awesome! Getting ready to take my first proctored exam and I’m extremely nervous. Posting this video has helped me a lot just to know what to expect. I’m also studying the Interdisciplinary Studies K-8 program. Good luck
BA Interdisciplinary Studies K-8 here (in Term 3 of 6). Great video! I reserve a small meeting room at the local library for my OAs, so no cleaning up for this guy. Bonus: ProctorU doesn't work with my normal computer (a Chromebook) so I check out a Windows laptop from the library while I'm there.
Thank you! Wow, what a fantastic idea. I would have never even thought about going to the library to do the exam. Definitely great when you don't have to let ProctorU use your personal computer. You really have this whole OA thing figured out, kudos!
I'm so glad I found your channel! I'm also going for my BA in Elementary Education. I too have a background in child care and preschool but never got my degree. My kids are grown now (I'm in my fifties) so this is my time. My start date at WGU is November 1st. Your videos are so helpful.
Don’t forget... There are no breaks between semesters and in order to take a break you’ll have to request one. Can take up to 3 months maximum I believe. 👍🏼😁
it seems invasive, but its a standard practice for IT certification testing as well. I had to do the same thing for a Microsoft Cert. Desk cleared, walls cleared, phone out of reach and in view of the camera, if you have extra monitors for your computer, they're supposed to be turned off and turned away from your view.
Keeping my area so that the proctors are happy is the hardest part of WGU. My house is very open and my desk is in my living room so I could theoretically see my entire living room, my dining area, and my kitchen. If I got a stickler of a proctor I would never be able to take a test because its just not feasible for me to sterilize 2/3rds of my house. While testing at a brick and mortar school I love staring into thin air or at the ceiling, it really helps me delve into my memory and recall things, but I am careful to not do this at all since it might make the proctor suspicious. On the bright side, I have been cleaning my house a lot more often since starting at WGU lol
I just started this December. I chose Cybersecurity. I think WGU is very helpful now in the Pandemic. I'm about to take my test. I'm nervous too. If you happen to see this comment please let me know some tips, I would appreciate it so much!!!
Hello! Just wanted to tell you that we are in the same situation! I have passed one class so far and my start date is Sunday! (Woohoo!) I am also a stay at home mom and plan on finishing in 2.5 years too because my sonw I'll start school then also! I also would rather not put him in day care. It's nice to know people in the same program with the same situation 😊
Sydni Fontenot that's awesome!! It is always nice to hear about people who are in similar situations!! Best of luck to you! I'd love for you to keep me updated on all of your progress!
Hey! Starting today! I finished my orientation but I'm a little confused. I see that some assessments are performance assessments and some are objective assessments. Which ones are the proctored tests? And how long after your start date did you get your Webcam? I'm hoping to really push through quickly.
J. Nikole Hershberger objective assessments are the proctored exams. My webcam came in between 1 and 2 weeks after my start date! Best of luck! If you have any other questions let me know and I will do my best to answer them for you :)
so im confused if they have a camera but your on your pc couldnty you just google all the questions and they would not even no? makes no sense if you had another browser open
not sure if you're still responding to comments i hope you are... but you can do exams anytime during the day? like 24 hours availability to do the exam? (since someone has to watch you)
Thank you so much for the video. I know this was years ago, but still very helpful to us newbies. I just got through orientation and start Oct 1. With the Proctored Exam, can you have item on your wall? I'm talking like decorative items that you have in your home, family pictures, etc.? Thanks!
I dont have a problem with a proctor administering the test and watching me, because i totally understand how that could be abused. however, does the proctor just watch to verify its you and only you taking it or are they interactive with you. i mean do they ask you questions? I have extreme anxiety around strangers and feel like that could hamper me.
Isaiah collins there is some initial communication. When you first sign on they go over the rules, basically they are reading off a script. They ask you to show your room and that's basically it. During this portion you can also see them. Once the test begins you can no longer see them but they obviously can see you still. I totally understand having anxiety around strangers and I felt the same way initially. I am really awkward when talking to people I don't know but after doing it 22 times now, it is no big deal. They really just read from their script and keep an eye out to make sure there's no cheating. The communication factor is pretty quick. There's also a chat box they use to communicate through if you need them throughout the test it is available to use.
Thanks for all of that information! I’m hopefully starting at WGU within the next couple months. Proctored testing sounds super awkward! Can you actually see them watching you on your screen? I don’t know if seeing them would make it more or less awkward 😂
You're welcome, thank you for watching! Awesome, it is a great school! It was super awkward at first but it's gotten much better. So when you first sign on and get going you will see the proctor and they will talk to you and ask you a few questions and go over the rules with you. When you start the exam you won't see them or hear them but they will be watching.. That sounds super creepy haha
I am also a stay at home mother, with three beautiful girls all under the age of 5, youngest being 10 months.I am scheduled to start at WGU December 1st. I had some possibly silly questions. First my situation is different than others so I do have some help/support from my husband but it is limited because he obliviously works and will be taking some evening classes at our local college on top of that. It worried me when you said the proctor makes you show entire room only because what happens if my kids come in the room or something? I mean like I said I have a baby, a toddler, and a preschooler anything is possible with them. Its also not idea for me to travel, or go to testing areas to test. I obliviously cannot leave my children unattended while in another room for any amount of time, unless my husband is home. Has anyone ran into a situation like that?
Kudos to you! Being a stay at home parent is tough work! I only have two and I'm always exhausted, couldn't imagine 3 under 5!! Okay so proctored tests can vary. I have heard of people being able to take their exam with their children on their laps, I have heard of people being kicked out of their exam for hearing their kids in the next room. It really all depends on who you get as a proctor and unfortunately it is random every time. My suggestions, try as best you can to take the exams at a time your husband is around to watch the littles. The good thing about the exams is you can schedule them, but you can ALSO take them at anytime. I have not officially scheduled any of my exams there is a "take exam now" option and they are open 24/7 with the exception of (I believe) Christmas and Thanksgiving. So even if you need to take it at 11pm when they are sleeping you can. If there is absolutely no way you can take an exam when your husband is home I'd say, just talk to your proctor about it. Once you log in to take the exam you will speak with them before your test begins so I would just say, hey I am a stay at home mom, my kids are here with me is this going to be a problem? I can't say 100% if that will work or not but it would definitely be worth a shot considering people have had their kids in the room during exams before. I think the biggest issue would be leaving the room because you could easily be cheating if you are no longer in their line of sight. I hope this helped you out. If you need anything else or need clarification please just let me know!
I usually test when my husband is home so he can keep the kiddos occupied. I would be too nervous they would wake up from nap and come barging in mid- test if I did it when I was home alone.
Haha! I feel the same! I had to take an exam last week and was stressing cleaning because my house was in shambles and I needed a place to take it hahaha! I have heard of people taking their tests in their bathrooms with no issues at all! LOL
True Teaching: My Journey oh yes, I remember you mentioning that. What are Facebook pages you were referring to? I would love to go on and read other people's views as well. Also, did you take the General Knowledge exams already or you don't have to?
If you just go on facebook and search for "WGU" or "WGU teachers college" a whole bunch should pop up. I have not taken them yet. It is suggested to take those exams after Math for Elementary Educators 3 which I won't be taking until my 3rd semester in year. So I still have a while to go for those basic skills exams.
I dropped out of graduate school because of ProctorU -- they kept on harassing me while taking a test including many interruptions such as rebooting their camera.
Tomoko Abe oh no! I am so sorry to hear that. A lot of people seem to have bad experiences with them. Thankfully I haven't had any issues yet. **knocks on wood** WGU also offers you to use examity instead although, I have zero knowledge or experience with them.
Thank you for the information! Im glad you were able to share your experience and it makes it a little bit easier to understand. Are you in the Teacher's College as well?
After you take an exam, are you provided with anything to show which questions you got wrong/right? Also, I noticed that the exam can be taken up to 3 or some odd times, are all courses that way?
Thank you! Nope! If you go to a center it is basically like taking an exam at any brick and mortar college. There will be someone there to make sure you are not cheating.
Im thinking of starting an online masters in instruction there. Is the program designed so that you can successfully complete? Don’t want to start and not finish bc its too hard. Thanks for feedback
Help!! I am set to start the teaching program but I recently found out that some states do not honor teaching degrees from WGU. I heard NJ and GA are two of them. I'm from Michigan and cannot get any straight answers from the dept of education. I'm so concerned. :/
Jessica 2018 have you spoken to your enrollment counselor about this? I am not familiar with Michigan's licensing requirements but in my state I also had a hard time figuring out the same thing and my department of education was no help at all. For my state, I need to get my license through reciprocity. So basically I will get my teaching license for Utah (because that's where WGU is based out of) and then I will get that license transferred to my state. Something that really helped me figure out the details was finding people from my state who have their teaching licenses through WGU. WGU facebook groups are an excellent resource for connecting with people local to you.
Operation Elementary she told me today, via email, that Michigan is not a reciprocity state so once I'm done with the program I go ahead and test for Michigan licensure. That helped to assure me.
Christine DeFruscio yes I am still loving this school! The flexibility is the best part for me. I have been insanely busy with my home life for the past few weeks and havent had much time for school so it is nice knowing I can take a few days off here and there. Best of luck to you!
They are very friendly and helpful in the beginning because they want to keep you enrolling and take your money. As you get close to graduating, they become harder to deal with and are always finding ways to keep your from graduating. They also don't like to give you credit for classes you take else where and there is a lot of redundancy. While most colleges have redundancy, WGU is over the top with it. My son enrolled with WGU because he thought he could save money and time by not having to travel to a physical college an hour away. He also thought he could travel at his own pace and finish the courses sooner and graduate sooner. It's not like that at WGU, where most of their grading is highly unverifiable and usually based on one graders opinion---even their math courses. In order to pass a course, you have to make an A. The graders will nick and pick your work to death until you are ready to scream. And sometimes, they'll tell you one thing is wrong, so you do it as they wanted and then they'll reverse themselves. This is to slow you down. The longer it takes you to get through the courses, the more money they make. It says non-profit, but trust me, it's all about the profits. What would have taken my son only two years at an actual physical college, has taken him over 3 years at WGU and they still have stalled him again. He should graduate this fall, but nah. He already had a 2 year degree somewhere else. And now he has used up all his grants and loans. He had to borrow money from a relative for this last semester. And now they have fixed it again so he can't graduate and it don't look like they are going to return his money this semester---even though it is early on. So what is he to do? Save up for a year and attend an actual real local college and attend for another year---just to graduate. I feel bad because I'm the one who talked him into doing enrolling in WGU. My advice now---don't do it and if you are in the beginning semesters, go somewhere else.
Sounds like your son is NOT studying for the courses enough. He's probably skimming it. It is obvious this school is not for him. When I was younger I did a music production program at Fullsail and it was very intensive. I had labs at 5:15 am and lecture classes later from 9am , 12pm, 5pm. The drop off and fail rate was huge. I can't remember a time in high school or when I did my BS in Management back in 2000 where I studied so much. This school may not compare to that one in terms of intensity of school work, but I think one must remain in constant awareness of deadline, counselor calls, test dates. I feel your son did not tell you everything. When he was travelling was he receiving the weekly calls or was he avoiding the calls? When he signed up for tests, did he honor the test dates or he missed some and had to reschedule and never got around to reschedule and received a failing grade for it?
Lindsay Call I did apply. The whole financial aid process was super easy because your enrollment portal lays out everything you need and is very specific. It also took months for them to get it all figured out. The financial aid department is super helpful but I think they seem to get backed up very easily. As far as how much it covers is dependent on s lot of personal factors that are laid out for you once you complete your FAFSA. Best of luck!
hey! thanks for the informative info! i work graveyards 2 kids one on the way but wanted a job where i am not killing my body anymore. decided to go for information technology. also loved computer stuff. unfortunately didn't have any professional experience so i have to get a certification prior to being accepted. i am super excited to get into the field though. i have heard a few things though. one is that it is accredited and transferable. and also one that that it isn't. any insight on that at all? accreditation is very important to me. thanks again!
Congratulations on your third little one on the way! How exciting! WGU IS accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). You can find all of WGU's accreditation information using this link: www.nwccu.org/member-institutions/directory/ and searching under "Utah" and you will see them on the list. As for the transferring are your referring to previous classes that may count towards your degree, or something else?
brandon fitzpatrick so if you complete your bachelor's degree at WGU and then go on to complete a master's degree at a different school the only way I believe it can be affected is your GPA. Because it is a pass/fail school we all have a 3.0 GPA across the board. So it all depends on if the school has a GPA requirement in order to be accepted to the program. Other than that as long as your bachelor's degree is complete it shouldn't be an issue. I am not 100% sure on that so it's always good to ask a WGU staff member for the most accurate information but that is my understanding of it. Also, I hear it can be difficult to transfer from a bachelor's degree if you want to finish pursuing it at another school I don't believe the competency units transfer easily in that regard. I apologize if that response was at all confusing I have have been sick for the past few days so my mind is a little jumbled!
@brandon Fitzpatrick They are regionally accredited by NWCCU, which is important in terms of future expectations for transferring. This accreditation is ranked with the U.S. Dept of Ed. You will still need to check the accreditation of the actual IT program. Program accreditations are those ranked in your specified industry and what employers essentially look for after regional accreditation. Be sure that the program is ranked and accredited in the IT industry.
I only had an A.S in Multimedia and another in Photography and I was accepted. No certifications. But it’s great that they’ll pay for all the certifications in the BS IT program. 😁👍🏼 I’m nervous about the exams. I just opened my first course today and still taking pre assessment. 🤔
Samantha Jorden yes you are! You can retake an assessment 3 times. If you need to take it more than that they will charge you each time. I am not sure what the exact fee is.
Habib Anwar the only assessment that is proctored is the final assessment for thr class which will determine if you pass or fail the class. The only other exam is thr pre assessment but that is not proctored. There are no required quizzes but some classes may have them in the course if study to use as practice for the final assessment. Hope this helps :)
Cheyenne Bowles the whiteboard is for notes during the exam only. Jt must be blank when you start and erased when finished. There are no notes allowed during exams. It is my understanding some math courses will have the equations you need available on a sidebar during the exam. I have only taken MEE1 and didn't need any equations so I'm not 100% sure on that.
Angela Zapata I'm supposed to dedicate about 20 hours but usually I only end up spending about 10 to 15 hours a week. Sometimes less if I'm having a busy week. Best of luck to you!
David Hang they do take control of your computer and I'm not 100% sure if anything is changed . They do click through and make sure all other programs are closed (they make sure to ask you if all work is saved and can be exited). They also look through your settings to make sure that you don't have any other hidden programs that could help you cheat. As far as actually changing settings I believe if they need yo change anything they must ask you during your set up if they can change whatever may need changed. Hope this helped!
Hi I am interested in an online program. I am currently an lvn but was told that I would have to start where everyone else starts. Can you tell me about the clinicals?
shaya b it's really dependent on a lot of factors. Prior knowledge, experience, skill level. Each class is different. Some may take a day out two some may take a few months. Although if you truly commit to the full 15 to 20 hours recommended a week than it should probably be faster for you.
whitesnowoyuki it definitely takes a little bit of time, especially the very first time you make a video. I had zero experience and still very minimal but I'm just learning as I go! Please let me know if you do end up making a channel. I'd love to watch!
Unfortunately no. The webcam they send you is a fisheye lense so they can see all around you during the exam. I'm not sure what the camera requirements for examity are, they may be different.
Compared to other Colleges and Universities? No! This school is so affordable and each term in a flat rate and you can finish as many courses as you can for that price! This website will break down all the costs, financial aid, scholarships, and grants available to you! www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition.html# Hope this helps!
CREEPY. Thanks for the info though. I would rather not have some weirdo asking me to show them my room and under my desk. I was considering going to WGU until I heard about this proctoring bs. However, if I were to go there, I wouldn't rearrange anything in my house for a "camera guest." Isn't that the whole purpose of this so-called "freedom in education" and taking exams "whenever and wherever we want?" How are they going to tell someone to rearrange their house? I would have been like, "no, you're a guest in my home and guests don't get to come into my home and tell me what to do with it. Period. Send me a check for the labor in rearranging my room, then we can discuss business. Until then, stfu and sit there while I listen to Metallica and take my exam." LOL This right here, is exactly why there should be a school for people like myself.
It is definitely a little annoying and at times inconvenient but then I remember I am still in the comfort of my own home and don't have to leave several nights a week to attend classes or take exams so it is worth it to me. Also, I can understand having proctored exams to hold accountability and make sure that everything is genuinely your own work and there is no cheating going on. Proctoring the exams definitely attributes to WGU's accreditation. Another option they have is actually going to a testing site near you which usually is a library or local community college so you can opt out of the proctored tests as long as your are willing to travel to take your exams. Also, side note, "Send me a check for the labor in rearranging my room, then we can discuss business. " HILARIOUS!!! hahaha
I agree with you 100%! If I'm paying for school, I'm not going to have someone have that much control over whether I pass/fail. You can't control if someone comes home if you don't live alone and telling children to not interrupt is like talking to a wall. That's ridiculous. I was so close to signing up until I started hearing these stories about proctors. I'm going to look into testing centers near me. If not, I'll find another school that treats you like an adult. Thank you for the video, it was very informative.
Extremely informational. I read previous accounts of the proctored exams but this is was much more detailed. I have TONS of books related to my field of study under my desk. I'll have to reconsider my current organization.
Thank you! Yeah some proctors seem to be very picky with what they will allow in your test space and others are pretty relaxed. Definitely doesn't hurt to be prepared for the picky ones:)
sameee
Thank you for being honest and giving so much detail. I am looking into WGU classes and they haven't mentioned any of this so far.
Very helpful! Thank you they legit don’t tell you that you need a webcam to have a proctor watch you take a test
Kudos to you! I am just now finishing 6 years with WGU. I completed my BS-IT in 2015 and am now 1 task away from completing my MBA - IT Management degree. Things have changed a lot with WGU during my time with them. Most of my exams for the BS degree were taken at test centers that I would have to travel to. For my MBA, all of my exams were administered through ProctorU.
Jack Boughson wow congratulations, that is so exciting! Since you came back for your MBA I'm assuming you had a positive experience with WGU so awesome! It's so fun to hear previous experiences. This school seems like it really is ever-changing to fit the students needs! Congratulations again!
I just graduated from the MBA program yesterday, February 28th, and today is my birthday! Two great things for the week!
What a wonderful week for you!! Congratulations and Happy Birthday! What a great gift!
@@JackBoughson Congratulations on your accomplishments at WGU!!! I am about halfway through my BS - Business in IT Management right now, and I am planning on following up with an MBA in IT Management as well. It's great to see someone else that has taken a similar path.
@@MrRayj35 Contact me if you have any questions. I'm onto my third degree from WGU, an ME-ID in Instructional Design.
Informative video.... Just a little head's up about ProctorU: I have used them many times for my college work. It does seem tedious, but really, it's no big deal. They have to follow these guidelines to keep business with these colleges. It may be annoying, but after doing it once just be prepared for that each time. Some ask more of you so just be prepared each time. For anyone not familiar with ProctorU, make sure of these following things each time: Have ID's ready. Have a clutter-free room. Close any blinds or curtains (I guess some ppl try to cheat and have others give them answers from outside? ). Don't talk to yourself during the test. I talk to myself when trying to work through problems and the proctor asked me to stop. lol. If you have children/others living with you, make sure they don't come into your room. I was informed of that and was told to make sure no one comes through or they would have to stop the exam. I have never had that issue, but it is helpful to know. Don't be nervous about someone watching you. It isn't like you can see them staring at you. I actually forget about them once I get into the exam. Also, use the restroom and get any drinks or what ever before it starts because many of your exams do not allow you to get up during the exam. No answering the door, the phone, tending to children or others in the house. This is very important.
Just wanted to share my experience about ProctorU. I have used them a dozen times and I have had no problems...
Thank you for sharing! I
Do they actually send you a web cam or do I need to buy one??
Also people with medical issues can request accommodations. I have them in place.
I will be starting in April 2018, I am so glad I know about this ahead of time.
Did you ever finish?
I am thinking of going to this school but the proctor u is kind of a turn off for me as I want to earn my masters in nursing. I am greatly debating this school or staying in my current school.
This is awesome! Getting ready to take my first proctored exam and I’m extremely nervous. Posting this video has helped me a lot just to know what to expect. I’m also studying the Interdisciplinary Studies K-8 program. Good luck
Thank you so much! I am so glad I could help! Have you taken the exam yet? How did it go?
No I haven’t taken it yet. Tomorrow is the big day and I believe I’m ready lol ... I will keep you posted if you like and again, Thanks!
Donnie Dickson yes! Keep me posted! I hope it went well 🤞🏻
Thank you for doing these videos! I'm getting ready to start the teachers college and you have answered so many of my questions!
I am so glad I could help! Let me know if you have any more questions!
Thanks for the great video with lots of helpful hints. I am starting this Nov. 01 on my RN to BSN.
Olivia Ruddell you're welcome! Glad I can help! Good luck!!
The Minimal Mommy congratulations! That’s the program I’m interested in. Have you already begun?
Thanks for all the info! Not looking forward to the proctor exams... but better than having to wait a full semester to take finals (:
Ashley Imani why because you wanted to cheat?
BA Interdisciplinary Studies K-8 here (in Term 3 of 6). Great video!
I reserve a small meeting room at the local library for my OAs, so no cleaning up for this guy. Bonus: ProctorU doesn't work with my normal computer (a Chromebook) so I check out a Windows laptop from the library while I'm there.
Thank you! Wow, what a fantastic idea. I would have never even thought about going to the library to do the exam. Definitely great when you don't have to let ProctorU use your personal computer. You really have this whole OA thing figured out, kudos!
Good idea!
I'm so glad I found your channel! I'm also going for my BA in Elementary Education. I too have a background in child care and preschool but never got my degree. My kids are grown now (I'm in my fifties) so this is my time. My start date at WGU is November 1st. Your videos are so helpful.
I start class the 1st of February, and I am excited! Wish me luck!
same here :) Good luck!
same as well. good luck to everyone. Just trying to find videos of how the camera should be set up for the proctored exams.
We will do great! what programs have you signed up for?
@@jaxgrande7727 unsure what you mean by programs but if you're asking about major it's network operations and security.
Don’t forget... There are no breaks between semesters and in order to take a break you’ll have to request one. Can take up to 3 months maximum I believe. 👍🏼😁
it seems invasive, but its a standard practice for IT certification testing as well. I had to do the same thing for a Microsoft Cert. Desk cleared, walls cleared, phone out of reach and in view of the camera, if you have extra monitors for your computer, they're supposed to be turned off and turned away from your view.
Keeping my area so that the proctors are happy is the hardest part of WGU. My house is very open and my desk is in my living room so I could theoretically see my entire living room, my dining area, and my kitchen. If I got a stickler of a proctor I would never be able to take a test because its just not feasible for me to sterilize 2/3rds of my house. While testing at a brick and mortar school I love staring into thin air or at the ceiling, it really helps me delve into my memory and recall things, but I am careful to not do this at all since it might make the proctor suspicious. On the bright side, I have been cleaning my house a lot more often since starting at WGU lol
I just found this video. OMG every time I took an exam I'd had enough of the proctor before it even started!!!
This is prob old but I’m about to start at WGU and I’m nervous 😬
Don't be nervous! You'll do great!
Maria Rodriguez how’s does u like it
I just started this December. I chose Cybersecurity. I think WGU is very helpful now in the Pandemic. I'm about to take my test. I'm nervous too. If you happen to see this comment please let me know some tips, I would appreciate it so much!!!
@@inspisiavideos8542 how did it go?
@@Hunterbenx I used a small earphone with a small camera I had in between my sweater so I passed all the exams for Cybersecurity in 3 months
Hello! Just wanted to tell you that we are in the same situation! I have passed one class so far and my start date is Sunday! (Woohoo!) I am also a stay at home mom and plan on finishing in 2.5 years too because my sonw I'll start school then also! I also would rather not put him in day care. It's nice to know people in the same program with the same situation 😊
Sydni Fontenot that's awesome!! It is always nice to hear about people who are in similar situations!! Best of luck to you! I'd love for you to keep me updated on all of your progress!
I would love to stay connected! I have a couple questions if you don't mind since you are a term or 2 ahead of me.
Sydni Fontenot I'm actually still in my first term!! But I'd love to stay in contact! You can email me at trueteaching@yahoo.com if you'd like!
Hey! Starting today! I finished my orientation but I'm a little confused. I see that some assessments are performance assessments and some are objective assessments. Which ones are the proctored tests? And how long after your start date did you get your Webcam? I'm hoping to really push through quickly.
J. Nikole Hershberger objective assessments are the proctored exams. My webcam came in between 1 and 2 weeks after my start date! Best of luck! If you have any other questions let me know and I will do my best to answer them for you :)
so im confused if they have a camera but your on your pc couldnty you just google all the questions and they would not even no? makes no sense if you had another browser open
not sure if you're still responding to comments i hope you are... but you can do exams anytime during the day? like 24 hours availability to do the exam? (since someone has to watch you)
Sounds like a pretty cool program. The proctored exams sounds a little invasive. Has it gotten any worse or have you had additional issues?
Thank you so much for the video. I know this was years ago, but still very helpful to us newbies. I just got through orientation and start Oct 1. With the Proctored Exam, can you have item on your wall? I'm talking like decorative items that you have in your home, family pictures, etc.? Thanks!
I dont have a problem with a proctor administering the test and watching me, because i totally understand how that could be abused. however, does the proctor just watch to verify its you and only you taking it or are they interactive with you. i mean do they ask you questions? I have extreme anxiety around strangers and feel like that could hamper me.
Isaiah collins there is some initial communication. When you first sign on they go over the rules, basically they are reading off a script. They ask you to show your room and that's basically it. During this portion you can also see them. Once the test begins you can no longer see them but they obviously can see you still. I totally understand having anxiety around strangers and I felt the same way initially. I am really awkward when talking to people I don't know but after doing it 22 times now, it is no big deal. They really just read from their script and keep an eye out to make sure there's no cheating. The communication factor is pretty quick. There's also a chat box they use to communicate through if you need them throughout the test it is available to use.
Thanks for all of that information! I’m hopefully starting at WGU within the next couple months. Proctored testing sounds super awkward! Can you actually see them watching you on your screen? I don’t know if seeing them would make it more or less awkward 😂
You're welcome, thank you for watching! Awesome, it is a great school! It was super awkward at first but it's gotten much better. So when you first sign on and get going you will see the proctor and they will talk to you and ask you a few questions and go over the rules with you. When you start the exam you won't see them or hear them but they will be watching.. That sounds super creepy haha
is it open book or no????
could u research on yr computer while taking the proctor test????
absolutely not, the entire point of the proctoring is to prevent exactly that.
I was planning on going for WGU but do they give you the study guide that tells you whats all going to be on the test before the exam?
I am also a stay at home mother, with three beautiful girls all under the age of 5, youngest being 10 months.I am scheduled to start at WGU December 1st. I had some possibly silly questions. First my situation is different than others so I do have some help/support from my husband but it is limited because he obliviously works and will be taking some evening classes at our local college on top of that. It worried me when you said the proctor makes you show entire room only because what happens if my kids come in the room or something? I mean like I said I have a baby, a toddler, and a preschooler anything is possible with them. Its also not idea for me to travel, or go to testing areas to test. I obliviously cannot leave my children unattended while in another room for any amount of time, unless my husband is home. Has anyone ran into a situation like that?
Kudos to you! Being a stay at home parent is tough work! I only have two and I'm always exhausted, couldn't imagine 3 under 5!! Okay so proctored tests can vary. I have heard of people being able to take their exam with their children on their laps, I have heard of people being kicked out of their exam for hearing their kids in the next room. It really all depends on who you get as a proctor and unfortunately it is random every time. My suggestions, try as best you can to take the exams at a time your husband is around to watch the littles. The good thing about the exams is you can schedule them, but you can ALSO take them at anytime. I have not officially scheduled any of my exams there is a "take exam now" option and they are open 24/7 with the exception of (I believe) Christmas and Thanksgiving. So even if you need to take it at 11pm when they are sleeping you can. If there is absolutely no way you can take an exam when your husband is home I'd say, just talk to your proctor about it. Once you log in to take the exam you will speak with them before your test begins so I would just say, hey I am a stay at home mom, my kids are here with me is this going to be a problem? I can't say 100% if that will work or not but it would definitely be worth a shot considering people have had their kids in the room during exams before. I think the biggest issue would be leaving the room because you could easily be cheating if you are no longer in their line of sight. I hope this helped you out. If you need anything else or need clarification please just let me know!
What did you end up doing about your kids while testing? I used proctoru before and took my test at midnight while my kids are asleep.
I usually test when my husband is home so he can keep the kiddos occupied. I would be too nervous they would wake up from nap and come barging in mid- test if I did it when I was home alone.
Great info! Now I have to clean my house (or at least my computer desk/room). Lol!
Haha! I feel the same! I had to take an exam last week and was stressing cleaning because my house was in shambles and I needed a place to take it hahaha! I have heard of people taking their tests in their bathrooms with no issues at all! LOL
Keep the vids coming. It's very informative. Are you studying Special Education as well?
So glad they are helping you! No, I am in the interdisciplinary studies k-8 program.
True Teaching: My Journey oh yes, I remember you mentioning that. What are Facebook pages you were referring to? I would love to go on and read other people's views as well. Also, did you take the General Knowledge exams already or you don't have to?
If you just go on facebook and search for "WGU" or "WGU teachers college" a whole bunch should pop up. I have not taken them yet. It is suggested to take those exams after Math for Elementary Educators 3 which I won't be taking until my 3rd semester in year. So I still have a while to go for those basic skills exams.
I dropped out of graduate school because of ProctorU -- they kept on harassing me while taking a test including many interruptions such as rebooting their camera.
Tomoko Abe oh no! I am so sorry to hear that. A lot of people seem to have bad experiences with them. Thankfully I haven't had any issues yet. **knocks on wood** WGU also offers you to use examity instead although, I have zero knowledge or experience with them.
Thank you for the information! Im glad you were able to share your experience and it makes it a little bit easier to understand. Are you in the Teacher's College as well?
You are welcome!! Yes I am! Interdisciplinary Studies K-8 :)
Thank you for posting this!
After you take an exam, are you provided with anything to show which questions you got wrong/right?
Also, I noticed that the exam can be taken up to 3 or some odd times, are all courses that way?
im starting august 1st, thanks for the videos, very helpful :)
Thanks for the video! If you do choose to test at a center, how much does it cost?
I do not believe there is a fee if you choose to take it at a testing site.
Hi! Great video. If you take your test at a testing center, do you still need to bring the camera?
Thank you! Nope! If you go to a center it is basically like taking an exam at any brick and mortar college. There will be someone there to make sure you are not cheating.
True Teaching: My Journey Good to know. Thank you so much! Wish you all the best :)
Yes- that camera needs to go everywhere with you no exceptions (shower bathroom everywhere)
Im thinking of starting an online masters in instruction there. Is the program designed so that you can successfully complete? Don’t want to start and not finish bc its too hard. Thanks for feedback
Help!! I am set to start the teaching program but I recently found out that some states do not honor teaching degrees from WGU. I heard NJ and GA are two of them. I'm from Michigan and cannot get any straight answers from the dept of education. I'm so concerned. :/
Jessica 2018 have you spoken to your enrollment counselor about this? I am not familiar with Michigan's licensing requirements but in my state I also had a hard time figuring out the same thing and my department of education was no help at all. For my state, I need to get my license through reciprocity. So basically I will get my teaching license for Utah (because that's where WGU is based out of) and then I will get that license transferred to my state. Something that really helped me figure out the details was finding people from my state who have their teaching licenses through WGU. WGU facebook groups are an excellent resource for connecting with people local to you.
Operation Elementary she told me today, via email, that Michigan is not a reciprocity state so once I'm done with the program I go ahead and test for Michigan licensure. That helped to assure me.
Jessica 2018 oh good!!! That's great to hear!
Hi...just wondering how you are still liking the school and program? I am applying to the MAT program and should start in November. Thanks!
Christine DeFruscio yes I am still loving this school! The flexibility is the best part for me. I have been insanely busy with my home life for the past few weeks and havent had much time for school so it is nice knowing I can take a few days off here and there. Best of luck to you!
This helped me thanks so much
Thanks for watching! Glad I could help!
Are you still publishing content on this RUclips Channel?
How often do you post?
Yes, I am. I haven't posted in a while because I haven't had anything new to report. I try to post when I am finished with a course.
I wonder if I'm going to start soon, still attempting the 5/1/2020 start date though, & I just found out about this University like 1 week ago!
They are very friendly and helpful in the beginning because they want to keep you enrolling and take your money. As you get close to graduating, they become harder to deal with and are always finding ways to keep your from graduating. They also don't like to give you credit for classes you take else where and there is a lot of redundancy. While most colleges have redundancy, WGU is over the top with it. My son enrolled with WGU because he thought he could save money and time by not having to travel to a physical college an hour away. He also thought he could travel at his own pace and finish the courses sooner and graduate sooner. It's not like that at WGU, where most of their grading is highly unverifiable and usually based on one graders opinion---even their math courses. In order to pass a course, you have to make an A. The graders will nick and pick your work to death until you are ready to scream. And sometimes, they'll tell you one thing is wrong, so you do it as they wanted and then they'll reverse themselves. This is to slow you down. The longer it takes you to get through the courses, the more money they make. It says non-profit, but trust me, it's all about the profits. What would have taken my son only two years at an actual physical college, has taken him over 3 years at WGU and they still have stalled him again. He should graduate this fall, but nah. He already had a 2 year degree somewhere else. And now he has used up all his grants and loans. He had to borrow money from a relative for this last semester. And now they have fixed it again so he can't graduate and it don't look like they are going to return his money this semester---even though it is early on. So what is he to do? Save up for a year and attend an actual real local college and attend for another year---just to graduate. I feel bad because I'm the one who talked him into doing enrolling in WGU. My advice now---don't do it and if you are in the beginning semesters, go somewhere else.
Sounds like your son is NOT studying for the courses enough. He's probably skimming it. It is obvious this school is not for him. When I was younger I did a music production program at Fullsail and it was very intensive. I had labs at 5:15 am and lecture classes later from 9am , 12pm, 5pm. The drop off and fail rate was huge. I can't remember a time in high school or when I did my BS in Management back in 2000 where I studied so much. This school may not compare to that one in terms of intensity of school work, but I think one must remain in constant awareness of deadline, counselor calls, test dates. I feel your son did not tell you everything. When he was travelling was he receiving the weekly calls or was he avoiding the calls? When he signed up for tests, did he honor the test dates or he missed some and had to reschedule and never got around to reschedule and received a failing grade for it?
Did you apply for financial aid? If so,how was the process and did it cover all your classes?
Lindsay Call I did apply. The whole financial aid process was super easy because your enrollment portal lays out everything you need and is very specific. It also took months for them to get it all figured out. The financial aid department is super helpful but I think they seem to get backed up very easily. As far as how much it covers is dependent on s lot of personal factors that are laid out for you once you complete your FAFSA. Best of luck!
hey! thanks for the informative info! i work graveyards 2 kids one on the way but wanted a job where i am not killing my body anymore. decided to go for information technology. also loved computer stuff. unfortunately didn't have any professional experience so i have to get a certification prior to being accepted. i am super excited to get into the field though. i have heard a few things though. one is that it is accredited and transferable. and also one that that it isn't. any insight on that at all? accreditation is very important to me. thanks again!
Congratulations on your third little one on the way! How exciting! WGU IS accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). You can find all of WGU's accreditation information using this link: www.nwccu.org/member-institutions/directory/ and searching under "Utah" and you will see them on the list. As for the transferring are your referring to previous classes that may count towards your degree, or something else?
transferable i mean if i decide to go to another school and get my masters or whatever i don't have any previous college experience.
brandon fitzpatrick so if you complete your bachelor's degree at WGU and then go on to complete a master's degree at a different school the only way I believe it can be affected is your GPA. Because it is a pass/fail school we all have a 3.0 GPA across the board. So it all depends on if the school has a GPA requirement in order to be accepted to the program. Other than that as long as your bachelor's degree is complete it shouldn't be an issue. I am not 100% sure on that so it's always good to ask a WGU staff member for the most accurate information but that is my understanding of it. Also, I hear it can be difficult to transfer from a bachelor's degree if you want to finish pursuing it at another school I don't believe the competency units transfer easily in that regard. I apologize if that response was at all confusing I have have been sick for the past few days so my mind is a little jumbled!
@brandon Fitzpatrick They are regionally accredited by NWCCU, which is important in terms of future expectations for transferring. This accreditation is ranked with the U.S. Dept of Ed. You will still need to check the accreditation of the actual IT program. Program accreditations are those ranked in your specified industry and what employers essentially look for after regional accreditation. Be sure that the program is ranked and accredited in the IT industry.
I only had an A.S in Multimedia and another in Photography and I was accepted. No certifications. But it’s great that they’ll pay for all the certifications in the BS IT program. 😁👍🏼
I’m nervous about the exams. I just opened my first course today and still taking pre assessment. 🤔
Thanks! I used your link. 😄👍
Awesome! Thank you so much! Best of luck to you!
If you fail a test, are you able to retake it? How does that work?
Samantha Jorden yes you are! You can retake an assessment 3 times. If you need to take it more than that they will charge you each time. I am not sure what the exact fee is.
Do you know if you can double major for the same tuition, or do they charge you double?
At this time, I do not believe that WGU offers a double major option.
Are all exams and quizzes examined by proctors?
Habib Anwar the only assessment that is proctored is the final assessment for thr class which will determine if you pass or fail the class. The only other exam is thr pre assessment but that is not proctored. There are no required quizzes but some classes may have them in the course if study to use as practice for the final assessment. Hope this helps :)
Thank you!! That was very helpful. I am glad it is only the final or every test would get annoying lol
How much exams in the program you take each semester ?
Is the whiteboard for notes? Are you allowed to use your notes with the exams?
Cheyenne Bowles the whiteboard is for notes during the exam only. Jt must be blank when you start and erased when finished. There are no notes allowed during exams. It is my understanding some math courses will have the equations you need available on a sidebar during the exam. I have only taken MEE1 and didn't need any equations so I'm not 100% sure on that.
Hello! How many hours a week do you dedicate to your studies? I will be starting WGU soon 😊
Angela Zapata I'm supposed to dedicate about 20 hours but usually I only end up spending about 10 to 15 hours a week. Sometimes less if I'm having a busy week. Best of luck to you!
Between pole dancing it's tough
does protor-U take control of your computer to change setting? if so, how many setting do the changed?
David Hang they do take control of your computer and I'm not 100% sure if anything is changed . They do click through and make sure all other programs are closed (they make sure to ask you if all work is saved and can be exited). They also look through your settings to make sure that you don't have any other hidden programs that could help you cheat. As far as actually changing settings I believe if they need yo change anything they must ask you during your set up if they can change whatever may need changed. Hope this helped!
What are the FB groups you mentioned?
Hi I am interested in an online program. I am currently an lvn but was told that I would have to start where everyone else starts. Can you tell me about the clinicals?
Hi Delicia! I am actually in the teacher's college so I have zero knowledge of the nursing program. Sorry!
Thank you for this video
You're welcome.
Have you taken the intro to humanities class
No I haven't. That class transferred in for me.
Hi how many hours do you need to study for each unit?
shaya b it's really dependent on a lot of factors. Prior knowledge, experience, skill level. Each class is different. Some may take a day out two some may take a few months. Although if you truly commit to the full 15 to 20 hours recommended a week than it should probably be faster for you.
So what happens when you fail the exam, can you re-take it?
Jacek R yes
Hi there!! I have some questions if you have time of course :)
I wish someone was doing the for RN to BSN
whitesnowoyuki are you enrolled? Maybe you should start a channel!!
Check out katiepie RN she goes to WGU and is getting her BSN in nursing :)
True Teaching: My Journey
I'am, I don't the time or the experience... but it's a great idea 💡......
Maybe I'll think about it.
Amber Gomez i'am already and RN.
I only say one video about WGU.
But yeah that was helpful.
Maybe I should make a video after my first term. Lol.
whitesnowoyuki it definitely takes a little bit of time, especially the very first time you make a video. I had zero experience and still very minimal but I'm just learning as I go! Please let me know if you do end up making a channel. I'd love to watch!
What kind of school do you go to
I go to Western Governors University-- an online accredited University.
I just found your video what degree are you going through? I wanting to do special education k-12
Adrianna Giese interdisciplinary studies k-8!
Do they use proctoru ?
Yes, but they also have an option to use examity. I have always used proctoru.
True Teaching: My Journey thanku
Raza Ghumman you're welcome!
I was just under the impression that With ProctorU u could u ur personal webcam but I guess it’s WGU policy to use this cam.
Unfortunately no. The webcam they send you is a fisheye lense so they can see all around you during the exam. I'm not sure what the camera requirements for examity are, they may be different.
Can you use your laptop camera instead of that ugly thing they send you?
Is it expensive to take the courses?
Anya you can find the tuition rates for each program WGU offers by following this link: www.wgu.edu/tuition_financial_aid/tuition#
Compared to other Colleges and Universities? No! This school is so affordable and each term in a flat rate and you can finish as many courses as you can for that price! This website will break down all the costs, financial aid, scholarships, and grants available to you! www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition.html# Hope this helps!
Good
What is the fb group link?
Anyone here for Cybersecurity?
CREEPY. Thanks for the info though. I would rather not have some weirdo asking me to show them my room and under my desk. I was considering going to WGU until I heard about this proctoring bs. However, if I were to go there, I wouldn't rearrange anything in my house for a "camera guest." Isn't that the whole purpose of this so-called "freedom in education" and taking exams "whenever and wherever we want?" How are they going to tell someone to rearrange their house? I would have been like, "no, you're a guest in my home and guests don't get to come into my home and tell me what to do with it. Period. Send me a check for the labor in rearranging my room, then we can discuss business. Until then, stfu and sit there while I listen to Metallica and take my exam." LOL This right here, is exactly why there should be a school for people like myself.
It is definitely a little annoying and at times inconvenient but then I remember I am still in the comfort of my own home and don't have to leave several nights a week to attend classes or take exams so it is worth it to me. Also, I can understand having proctored exams to hold accountability and make sure that everything is genuinely your own work and there is no cheating going on. Proctoring the exams definitely attributes to WGU's accreditation. Another option they have is actually going to a testing site near you which usually is a library or local community college so you can opt out of the proctored tests as long as your are willing to travel to take your exams. Also, side note, "Send me a check for the labor in rearranging my room, then we can discuss business. " HILARIOUS!!! hahaha
I agree with you 100%! If I'm paying for school, I'm not going to have someone have that much control over whether I pass/fail. You can't control if someone comes home if you don't live alone and telling children to not interrupt is like talking to a wall. That's ridiculous. I was so close to signing up until I started hearing these stories about proctors. I'm going to look into testing centers near me. If not, I'll find another school that treats you like an adult. Thank you for the video, it was very informative.
You're beautiful!
I like you