Respondus Lockdown Browser is a tool integrated within LIVE/D2L that prevents students from launching other applications once they start their quiz inside LIVE. They cannot open another browser (or tab) nor can they pull up electronic notes, take screen captures, print pages, etc. This can also be useful for LIVE quizzes that you administer during a face-to-face classes. The companion video proctoring software, Response Monitor, is introduced after Lockdown Browser below.
Here is a short introductory video: Introduction to LockDown Browser for Brightspace external website. This second video shows how easy it is to activate the software for your quizzes in LIVE (or Brightspace): Preparing a Quiz for Use with LockDown Browser in Brightspace external website.
One important consideration is that students must have the ability to install the software on the computer they will use to take the quiz.
Respondus highly recommends offering an ungraded practice quiz using the software to ensure students work through any technical issues before taking their first quiz. Respondus also suggests leaving the quiz available for the duration of the course so students can access it again if they use a different computer.
Have students using iPads? There is an additional setting that must be used in order for it to work on that device (see Can an iPad be used with LockDown Browser? external website).
Quick Start Guides
quick start guide for students (.pdf)
quick start guide for instructors (.pdf)
System Requirements
Operating Systems
- Windows: 11 and 10
- Mac: Mac OS 10.12 to 12.0+
- iOS: 11.0+ (iPad only). Must have a compatible LMS integration.
- Chromebook
Memory
- Windows: 75 MB permanent space on the hard drive
- Mac: 120 MB permanent space on the hard drive
Additional Hardware Requirements
In addition to the above, LockDown Browser also requires:
- A web camera (internal or external) & microphone.
- A broadband internet connection.
Browser Requirements
LockDown Browser is a client application that is installed to a local computer. Both the Windows edition and the Mac edition of the browser are based on Chromium, Google's open source framework. Students do not need Google's Chrome browser installed; nor will this version affect a Chrome browser that's already installed.
Recommended Text for Syllabus
Consider placing the following in your course syllabus on D2L/LIVE:
This course requires the use of LockDown Browser for online exams. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of LockDown Browser. external website
LockDown Browser should only be used for taking Brightspace quizzes.
Beginning a Quiz
- Close all programs, unless one is used to connect you to the Internet.
- Log into Brightspace with your regular browser, select the course and navigate to the quiz.
- If LockDown Browser has not previously been installed, you will be prompted to download and install the browser.
- Return to the quiz and use the launch button there to open LockDown Browser.
- If prompted to close a blocked program (e.g. screen capture, instant messaging), choose Yes.
For additional details on using LockDown Browser, review the LockDown Browser Student Quick Start Guide. (.pdf) Also available on D2L/LIVE homepage.
Finally, follow these guidelines:
- Select a location where you won't be interrupted
- Before starting the test, know how much time is available for it, and that you've allotted sufficient time to complete it
- Turn off all mobile devices, phones, etc. and don't have them within reach
- Clear your area of all external materials — books, papers, other computers, or devices. Remain at your desk or workstation for the duration of the test
- LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you will be unable to exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted
- Consider rebooting your pc or laptop and logging directly into D2L/LIVE to take your quiz (before doing anything else with the computer).
Respondus Monitor
Respondus Monitor is a fully-automated proctoring solution. Students use a webcam to record themselves during an online exam. Afterward, flagged events and proctoring results are available to the instructor for further review. Respondus Monitor requires that LockDown Browser be activated for your D2L/LIVE quiz. Note: the configuration of Monitor is completed on the same familiar LockDown Browser configuration page.
Watch the following video from Respondus, "Preparing an Exam for Use with Respondus Monitor and Lockdown Browser."
Respondus also has an introductory video external website on their website.
See the Respondus Monitor Resource page external website for example text for your syllabus, registering for free training seminars from Respondus, and more. When selecting an LMS, choose Brightspace.
Licensing
The University is currently licensing Respondus Monitor on an ongoing basis. Please alert the OTTL Team of your intention to use Respondus Monitor for the upcoming semester with approximate class size. This helps manage costs. For more information, email the Wilkes OTTL Team. Previous to COVID, students paid a small yearly fee to use Respondus Monitor. Our current licensing arrangement is reviewed regularly and any change will be communicated to the campus community well in advance of the semester start.