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 do I need before installing LockDown Browser?
  • What preparations should I do before taking an assessment in LockDown Browser?
  • What are the flags that LockDown Browser 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®

You may download and install LockDown Browser from this link:

https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=636156502

Important Notes:

1. This installer is only compatible with personal devices.
2. Please be advised that the link is exclusive to Asian Institute of Management students and cannot be used by individuals from other institutions.

Once Installed

• Start LockDown Browser
• Log in to your ALICE account
  • You will need to manually enter your password when logging into ALICE through LockDown Browser, even if your browser usually logs you in automatically. Should you forget your password, reset your password at https://alice.aim.edu/webapps/blackboard/password. 
  • For users with Single Sign-On (SSO), please enter your AIM M365 account credentials when redirected.
• Navigate to the exam

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. 

When you access the test through LockDown Browser, the password is entered automatically by the system. If the password field appears blank and you are unable to proceed, it indicates that you are attempting to access the test through a standard browser. Please close it, launch LockDown Browser, and return to the exam to continue.

Note: The above explanation is only for Blackboard Learn (Original). It does NOT apply for Blackboard Learn (Ultra).

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 Catalina (10.15) to Sequoia (15.0)
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.

What are the flags that LockDown Browser takes note of?

LockDown Browser 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.