Canvas vs Proctorio: what each system can see
A quick comparison of Canvas LMS signals vs proctoring software signals, and where they overlap.
Quick context
Canvas is an LMS. It primarily records LMS activity and quiz-related events. Proctoring tools (like Proctorio) are separate systems that can record additional signals depending on configuration.
What’s actually captured varies by institution policies, exam settings, browser requirements, and proctoring configuration.
Quick comparison
| Topic | Canvas | Other side |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Course delivery + quizzes, assignments, grades | Exam monitoring and proctoring workflows |
| Typical signals | Quiz timeline events, submission events, navigation signals | Lockdown settings, webcam/screen capture (if enabled), environment checks |
| Where to view reports | Canvas quiz logs / reports in the course UI | Proctoring dashboard + incident reports |
| How “strict” it feels | Depends on quiz settings; often lighter by default | Can be strict if lockdown/capture is configured |
Takeaway
If your course uses both, treat them as two separate sources: Canvas shows LMS events, while proctoring tools can add extra monitoring signals.
Want the full breakdown? Read the full guide.