Password Management System for Testing Centers

[chought4]

I am an upper level Canvas admin and testing center administrator. 

I'm guessing that there are nightmarish logistics involved, but I am just wondering if anyone has an idea if it would be possible to use some sort of password override feature on an administrative level that would allow a testing center to bypass the password on a Canvas exam using one that is generated by the administration in the testing center daily.

So, for example, if there are 20 different Canvas quizzes running on a certain day, that is 20 different unique passwords that would need to be used multiple times throughout the day.  While this causes its own level of annoyance, especially if a faculty member uses passwords that are more difficult to type, we also run into issues where instructors give us a password and either change it or miss-type it in Canvas so that it does not work when staff attempt to put it in causing significant delays to students trying to test.

Is there a way anyone knows of where an institution admin can put a password that changes daily to be used for all Canvas courses on an account?  One that doesn't change the existing password if a faculty member puts one in on a quiz but basically acts as a second legitimate password?

[mzimmerman]

Hi @chought4 

I can't think of a way to automatically do what you're describing, aside from setting up some kind of admin script that calls the APIs to adjust the test settings.

However, if the intent is to require students to come to the testing center in order to take a particular test, is there a particular reason not to use IP restrictions to limit the test so that it can only be taken from the IP range assigned to the testing center, rather than using a password?

(Most information on IP restrictions for quizzes is at https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/Instructor-Guide/What-options-can-I-set-in-a-quiz/ta-p/683  and https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/Canvas-Resource-Documents/IP-Filtering-in-Canvas/ta-p/387089 )

[chought4]

Thanks @mzimmerman 

Our particular issue is a bit more complicated as we have a number of different testing centers as well as working with a number of remote proctors for some of these exams, so I am not sure that the IP address solution would work as we are so spread out.  

I didn't think it would be easy or maybe even possible, but just wanted to make sure that I wasn't overlooking anything.  Thanks so much for the prompt reply!

[mzimmerman]

Perhaps someone more clever than me has a workaround, but as far as I know, there can only be one password/access code set for a quiz, so you'd have to overwrite the existing password.

[Tanyanunah]

Here's a thought: have you considered using a password management system for your testing center? It could be a game-changer! Imagine having all your passwords securely stored and easily accessible when you need them most. No more sticky notes or scrambling to remember which password goes where. Plus, it's a surefire way to boost security and keep things running smoothly.

I've heard good things about using crm document management too. They're not just for sales teams anymore! They can help organize everything from student records to test materials, making your life a whole lot easier.