Quick Start Guide and FAQs for LockDown Browser

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What is Respondus LockDown Browser®?
• Installing LockDown Browser®
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • What are the computer requirements for the installation of LockDown Browser?
  • What devices should I need before installing LockDown Browser?
  • What preparations should I do before taking an assessment in LockDown Browser?
• Respondus Monitor
  • What are the flags that Respondus Monitor takes note of?
  • I feel like my privacy is at risk. What about our privacy concerns?
• Problems?

What is Respondus LockDown Browser®?

LockDown Browser is a locked browser for use with tests in Blackboard. It prevents you from:

• printing,
• copying, 
• going to another URL, or 
• accessing other applications during an assessment. 

If a Blackboard test requires that LockDown Browser be used, you are prohibited from taking the test with a standard web browser.

Installing LockDown Browser®

Reminders:

• You won't be able to access tests with a standard web browser that requires LockDown Browser. If this is attempted, you will be encountered with a password that will block you from taking the test. 

• Once a test has been started with LockDown Browser, you cannot exit until the test has been submitted for grading.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the computer requirements for the installation of LockDown Browser?

1. For Windows users:
   • Windows 11 and 10 (both 32-bit and 64-bit)
     • 2 GB RAM (A minimum of 4 GB of available RAM is necessary when using LockDown Browser to take an exam that also uses webcam)    
   • Windows 10/11 "S Mode" and "SE" are not compatible operating systems.
2. For Mac users:
   • macOS Monterey (12) to 26.0+ (Tahoe and future releases)
3. For Chromebook users:
   • Respondus recommends keeping your Chromebook updated to the most recent version that is available via Google’s ChromeOS “Stable” channel: https://chromereleases.googleblog.com/search/label/stable 

What devices should I need before installing LockDown Browser?

Before installing LockDown Browser, ensure you have the following devices:

• A webcam (either built-in or external)
• A working microphone (either pre-installed in your laptop or an external one)

What preparations should I do before taking an assessment in LockDown Browser?

Before taking an assessment in LockDown Browser, it is important to make sure you're fully prepared. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Check your device and internet connection:
   • Ensure your webcam and microphone are working properly.
   • Verify that your internet connection is stable and reliable.
2. Environment Setup:
   1. Choose a quiet and well-lit location where you won't be disturbed. Make sure that no one is with you when taking the test. You will be recorded by LockDown Browser, once you start taking the assessment.
   2. Clear your workspace of any unauthorized materials or devices (such as index cards, mobile phones, books, notebooks, etc.). 
   3. If you are taking the assessment on campus, make sure that you receive proper and clear instructions from the Program regarding your testing site/room.
3. Apps
   • Make sure that your installed LockDown Browser is updated to its latest version.
   • Save and close all other applications on your personal computer, as they will automatically close once the assessment starts.
   • Once a test has been started with LockDown Browser, you cannot exit until the test has been submitted for grading.
4. Instructions
   • Carefully read and understand all the instructions provided by your instructor regarding the assessment.

Respondus Monitor

Respondus Monitor is an optional feature built into Respondus LockDown Browser that uses your webcam to record you while taking an assessment.

Please note that Respondus Monitor is not enabled by default. The use of Respondus Monitor depends on your instructor's assessment setup and requirements. Some assessments may only require the use of Respondus LockDown Browser, while others may require both Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor.

No separate installation is required for Respondus Monitor. It is already included as part of the Respondus LockDown Browser application. If your instructor has enabled Respondus Monitor for an assessment, the webcam recording process will automatically be launched when you access the assessment through LockDown Browser.

When enabled, Respondus Monitor records the student during an online, non-proctored assessment using the device's webcam. This setup is commonly used for fully online or hybrid examinations.

What are the flags that Respondus Monitor takes note of?

Respondus Monitor has a Facial Detection and situational awareness feature that flags several behaviors that might indicate suspicious activity during an exam. Here are some common red flags:

• Leaving the view: If you move out of the webcam’s view, it will be flagged.
• Eye movement: Excessive eye movement away from the screen can be flagged as suspicious.
• Multiple people: If another person enters the frame, it will be flagged.
• Unusual sounds: Background noises or talking can trigger a flag.
• Lighting changes: Significant changes in lighting, such as turning lights on or off, can be flagged.
• Device usage: Attempting to use other devices or applications during the exam will be flagged.
• Turning off the webcam: If the webcam is turned off or disconnected during the exam, it will be flagged.

These flags are reviewed by your instructor to determine if any actual cheating occurred. It’s always best to stay focused on your screen and minimize any distractions to avoid unnecessary flags. If you have any concerns with LockDown Browser, feel free to ask your instructor.

I feel like my privacy is at risk. What about our privacy concerns?

Proctoring results, including the student video, are only available to the instructor and administrators from within the online course. Respondus staff do not watch or review student videos. The Respondus Monitor Terms of Use is the official word on privacy, but the following document (one page) answers most privacy questions asked by instructors and students:

You may visit the Data Privacy Overview at https://web.respondus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Respondus_Data_Privacy.pdf

Problems?

If you have problems downloading and installing LockDown Browser, email alice@aim.edu.