Features for Instructors

• Secure test environment: Lockdown Browser creates a secure testing environment by preventing students from accessing other applications, websites, or resources during an exam, minimizing the risk of cheating or unauthorized access to online resources.

• Customizable settings: Instructors can customize various settings within Lockdown Browser, such as allowing or restricting specific applications, enabling or disabling features like printing or copying, and setting time limits for exams.

• Fully-automated proctoring option: Respondus LockDown Browser with Respondus Monitor automates the entire proctoring process, requiring no action from instructor during the assessment window. Afterward, flagged events and proctoring results are available to the instructor for further review.

Features for Students

• Respondus Monitor offers 24-7 real-time chat for students.

Not Optimal For

• Open-book or resource-dependent exams: Lockdown Browser may not be suitable for exams that require students to access external resources, such as open-book exams or exams that rely on the use of specific software or online tools.

• Courses with accessibility needs: Students with certain accessibility requirements or accommodations may experience challenges using Lockdown Browser, potentially requiring additional support or alternative arrangements.

• Limited technical resources: In environments where students have limited access to reliable devices or internet connectivity, the use of Lockdown Browser may be hindered or create additional technical barriers.

Dealbreakers

• Privacy concerns: Some students and instructors may have concerns about the level of monitoring and tracking involved with the Respondus Monitor feature, which uses webcam, microphone, and screen recording during assessments.

• Technology requirements: Using LockDown Browser and Monitor requires specific hardware and software requirements, such as a webcam, microphone, and a stable internet connection. Students without access to these resources may face difficulties in using the system.

• Internet connectivity issues: Poor or unreliable internet connectivity can cause issues with the Monitor feature, leading to disruptions or incomplete recordings during assessments.

• Accessibility limitations: Students with certain disabilities or accommodations may find it challenging to use LockDown Browser and Monitor effectively, potentially creating barriers to equal access.

Ways to Incorporate

• Clear communication: Before using these tools, clearly communicate their purpose, functionality, and requirements to students. Explain how they work, what will be monitored, and the steps students need to follow to ensure a smooth experience.

• Trial runs: Offer practice tests using the LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor. This allows students to familiarize themselves with the software and troubleshoot potential technical issues before an actual exam.

• Technical support and resources: Provide adequate technical support and resources, including troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and a helpdesk. Ensuring students can easily access support is crucial for minimizing stress and technical difficulties during exams.

• Privacy assurance: Address privacy concerns proactively. Explain what data is collected, how it is stored, who has access, and how it will be used. Assure students of their privacy rights and the measures taken to protect their personal information.

• Alternative testing options: For students who cannot use these tools due to technical limitations or strong privacy concerns, consider offering alternative assessment methods, such as in-person exams or different forms of assessments like projects or papers.

Accessibility

• Some browser based assistive technologies like Kurzweil (cloud version) and Read&Write (Chrome version and macOS version) will not work with Respondus.  Faculty should work directly with SSD to determine an appropriate course of action for testing students who require use of these assistive technologies as an accommodation. 

• There are some keyboard shortcuts that are unique to Respondus Lockdown Browser for Windows and macOS. 

• EquatIO (windows install only) can be used with Respondus LockDown Browser to read exam math content. 

Resources

Both Canvas and Respondus support Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor.

• Select Support on any Canvas screen for a list of help options.

• Go to Respondus Technical Support and select Submit a Ticket. 

Information and policy for online assessment is available from the provost: Testing, Proctoring, and Alternative Assessments.

Respondus has created quick guides for its tools:

• Respondus Monitor: overview of key features, and instructor resources

• LockDown Browser: overview of key features, and instructor resources

• Rapid Rollout for Administrators provides answers the top questions that administrators have about these applications.

• Rapid Rollout for Instructors answers the top questions instructors have about LockDown Browser & Respondus Monitor.

Respondus offers daily webinar training with live Q&A: Go to Respondus Webinars for a list of training webinars.The sessions are about 45 minutes, with an extended Q/A period where questions are answered live.

General Information

• If your instructor has set up a Canvas Quiz that requires using the LockDown Browser or Monitor, you will need to download, install, and test Respondus before taking the quiz.

• For New Quizzes, launch the quiz from your normal browser. Lockdown Browser will open automatically.

• For Classic Quizzes, open Lockdown Browser, sign in, then navigate to your quiz.

Resources

• Taking quizzes with Respondus LockDown Browser

• Student troubleshooting guide: Taking Quizzes in Canvas

• Respondus Download for Virginia Tech