Online Invigilation FAQs
1. Exam Format and Policy Changes
What is the key change to the exam format this year?
All undergraduate and postgraduate examinations are now strictly Closed Book. This means you cannot access notes, textbooks, websites, or any external materials during the examination. Any use of external resources will be considered a breach of academic integrity.
How must I submit my answers?
For the vast majority of modules, students are required to type their answers directly into the text editor provided within the Mercer Mettl exam platform.
Are there any exceptions to the typed-answer rule?
Yes, in specific circumstances, such as modules requiring data analysis or financial calculations, your lecturer may specify that you must complete your answers using a program like Microsoft Excel. In these cases, you will be instructed to upload the completed file to the exam platform. Always check your specific module instructions and the exam timetable for confirmation.
Where can I see if my exam is a typed exam or requires an upload?
The required submission method will be clearly stated in the specific instructions provided by your lecturer for that module and will be noted on the official Exam Timetable released by the Exams Team.
2. Platform and Technical Requirements
What online platform is used for the exams?
All examinations, unless otherwise specified, take place via our Online Invigilation platform, Mercer Mettl.
What are the minimum technical requirements for the online exams?
You will need:
A reliable laptop or desktop computer (mobile devices are not supported).
A stable, high-speed internet connection.
A working, connected webcam (either internal or external).
A working microphone.
The latest version of the Google Chrome browser.
How do I ensure my equipment is ready?
You are required to complete the mandatory mock exam in advance of the exam period. This test is specifically designed to check your system, platform access, and help you practice the new typed-answer format. You must use the same computer and location you intend to use for your live exams. The Exams team will send you details of the mock exam week during which you must complete the mock exam. You are encouraged to complete the mock exam early in this week in order to have the maximum time possible to troubleshoot any technical issues with your system.
What if I experience technical issues before or during the mock exam?
Any technical issues identified during the mock exam period must be logged with the service desk immediately so they can be resolved well in advance of the official exam period.
3. During the Exam
What is the online invigilation process?
The Mercer Mettl platform uses a combination of AI monitoring and human proctors to supervise the exam session via your webcam, microphone, and desktop screen. It records your entire session, flags suspicious activity (e.g., leaving the screen, talking, using prohibited applications), and ensures the closed-book rules are followed.
What if my internet connection drops during the exam?
The Mettl platform is designed to continue recording your activity and will attempt to auto-save your typed answers. If your connection is momentarily interrupted, you should try to reconnect immediately. If the connection loss is prolonged, contact the Exams Office via the service desk immediately after the issue is resolved.
Can I leave my seat during the exam?
No. You must remain visible to the webcam for the entire duration of the examination. Leaving your seat or moving out of the camera's view is a serious breach of invigilation rules and may result in your exam being flagged and reviewed for academic misconduct. One exception to this is if you need to visit the toilet - please inform the proctor via the online platform's chat button in advance of leaving to visit the toilet.
What is the procedure for an Exam Clash Notification?
If you identify an exam clash on your timetable, you must notify the Exams Office immediately via the service desk ticketing system to find a suitable resolution.
OTHER FAQs
● Help, I've been disconnected from the system and I'm running out of time!
First, remain calm. If you are disconnected from the system, the clock stops. You can re-access the system by putting in the same details you registered with the first time, and your exam will be there with your answers and with the remaining time for the test. You may need to contact your invigilators to receive the exam link again.
● Can I navigate between questions on my exam?
Yes, you can. You can also select the 'revisit' button on certain questions to remind yourself that you haven't finished them. Watch the instructional video on your Moodle page ahead of your exam for tips on how to do this.
● I don't have a webcam, how can I sit my exam?
You will not be able to sit the exam without a webcam. Please source a webcam as soon as possible, as you will need one for future exams and classes.
● How many questions do I have to answer?
At the top of your exam, there is the name of the exam with an 'i' button next to it. If you click on this at any point during your exam you can see the instructions to candidates.
● How will I know how much time I have left?
Do not run out of time!
In the top right hand corner of your screen there is a timer. It is your responsibility to check the timer and ensure you have enough time to answer all the questions. You must complete all the required answers within the time given - you will not be able to submit answers after this time has finished.
● Can I go to the toilet during my exam?
Yes, although you will not be allowed any extra time for your exam.
● How can I contact someone if I am having problems?
We recommend you contact the Exams Team via the Chat with an Expert chat facility. This can be found on your Moodle page. If you are having technical difficulties but are still connected to the platform, we will be able to view your screen and troubleshoot with you.
● Where has my exam disappeared to?!
Your exam is run in a separate tab, and you might have minimised it; go to the taskbar at the bottom of your screen and check for any additional windows.
● Can I use more than one screen to sit my exam?
No, it is not possible to use a second screen. This is not permitted by our Online Exam Platform and if you try to access the online exams platform with a second screen your system will fail the compatibility tests.
● I can’t find my student card, can I use anything else?
You can use any official identification - the best ones to use are your passport, driver’s license or PSC (public service card).
● I can’t see my exam submission on Moodle - did I definitely submit it?
All work written directly into the text boxes on the Mercer Mettl platform is saved automatically.
● Do I need to reference in online exams?
Yes, you must reference your sources. Referencing in an exam does not need to be as formal as with a CA but it must be clear where work is not your own and were it derived from, eg:
In-text - direct quote (or replicated image) - (NAME, year, page)
In-text - paraphrased - (NAME, year, [page if available])
Reference List - NAME, year, Title or URL