Respondus provides two tools to help faculty remotely proctor tests published in Canvas:
- LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment in Canvas. When students use LockDown Browser to access a quiz, they are unable to print, copy, visit other websites, access other applications, or close a quiz until it is submitted for grading. Quizzes created for use with LockDown Browser cannot be accessed with standard browsers.
- Respondus Monitor records the students as they take the test using their web camera. It must be used with the Respondus LockDown Browser. The instructor can choose to review the recording if they suspect academic misconduct. Students must have a web camera installed on the device they take the test for faculty to use Respondus Monitoring.
Quick Links
Divisional Access
Respondus is only used and accessible by:
- Advanced Academic Programs – AS
- Carey School of Business (BU)
- Krieger School of Arts and Sciences (AS)
- Peabody Institute (PY)
- School of Nursing (NR)
- Whiting School of Engineering (EN)
Important
- Practice Test: You must create a practice test at least one week prior to a test that uses LockDown Browser in order for students to have time to download the browser and take the practice test. This 0-pt, 1-question test should have unlimited attempts so that the students have ample opportunities to troubleshoot any issues.
- Create the Quiz: Before you can enable LockDown Browser on a quiz, you will first need to have the quiz created in the Quizzes area of your course.
- Dashboard: Also, please check the LockDown Browser dashboard. Some quizzes which were imported from Canvas may have ‘LockDown Browser Required’ in the title, but are actually not set up for LockDown Browser (LDB). You will need to enable LDB again.
- New v. Classic Quizzes: There is a difference between the use of LDB with Classic v. New Quizzes.
- For classic quizzes, students would start with LockDown Browser. You can only take one exam per session. You would need to re-launch LDB to take another exam.
- For new quizzes, students would start with a standard browser such as Chrome, Firefox, or Edge browser and navigate to the test in Canvas. The student will be prompted to open LockDown Browser.
How to Use
Respondus must be used on a computer. It is not supported on Chromebook or mobile devices.
Faculty Instructions
- The first time an instructor opens the LockDown Browser Dashboard, they will be prompted to allow a LockDown Browser token for Canvas. These types of tokens are for the third-party applications you have authorized to access the Canvas site on your behalf including the LockDown Browser Dashboard with browser-based authentication.
- Be sure to communicate with students that the test will require LockDown Browser or LockDown Browser plus Monitor.
- Be sure to create a practice test with unlimited attempts, set at 0 points.
- Review this Respondus guide from the vendor.
Here is a brief video to get started.
Student Instructions
Download and Test the Respondus LockDown Browser
You will need to download the Respondus LockDown Browser if your instructor requires you to use the Respondus Browser or Monitoring tool to complete your test. (This is the download link for JHU Canvas users). This 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. When it comes time to take the test, enter the Canvas course site to start the test. The LockDown browser will start automatically.
Important Guidelines for Using Respondus LockDown Browser during a Test
Follow these guidelines when taking an online test.
- Download and install the Respondus LockDown Browser well before your test so you can ensure it is installed properly. It is not recommended to a use Google Chromebook device with LockDown browser.
- Choose a location where you won’t be interrupted to take the test.
- Turn off all other devices (e.g. tablets, phones, second computers) and place them outside of your reach.
- Disable notifications such as desktop apps, calendars, and alarms.
- Before starting the test, know how much time is available for it, and also that you’ve allotted sufficient time to complete it.
- Clear your desk or workspace of all external materials not permitted – books, papers, other devices.
- Remain at your computer for the duration of the test.
- If the computer, Wi-Fi, or location is different than what was used previously with the “Webcam Check” and “System & Network Check” in LockDown Browser, run the checks again prior to the exam.
Respondus Monitor Directions
Your instructor may also use the Respondus Monitoring tool. Respondus Monitoring records your activities during the test with a web camera. You do not have to install additional software beyond the Respondus LockDown Browser, but you will need to connect a web camera to the device on which you are taking the test. The Monitoring tool will record you while you take the test that the faculty can view afterwards.
To record a good webcam video when using the Respondus Monitoring tool, follow these guidelines.
- Avoid wearing baseball caps or hats with brims.
- Ensure your computer or device is on a firm surface (a desk or table). Do NOT have the computer on your lap, a bed, or other surface where the device (or you) are likely to move.
- If using a built-in webcam, avoid readjusting the tilt of the screen after the webcam setup is complete.
- Take the exam in a well-lit room but avoid backlighting (such as sitting with your back to a window).
- Remember that 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.
Getting Help
Several resources are available if you encounter problems with LockDown Browser:
- The Windows and Mac versions of LockDown Browser have a “Help Center” button located on the toolbar.
- Use the “System & Network Check” to troubleshoot issues.
- If an exam requires you to use a webcam, also run the “Webcam Check” from this area.
- Respondus Knowledge Base: Visit the knowledge base, and then select the “Knowledge Base” link and then select “Respondus LockDown Browser” as the product. If your problem is with a webcam, select “Respondus Monitor” as your product.
- If you’re still unable to resolve a technical issue with LockDown Browser, please email your instructor.
Best Practices
- It is suggested you only use the LockDown Browser on closed-book tests.
- Develop a practice test to allow students to test the Respondus tools before they take a graded exam. This 0-pt, 1-question test practice test can include any questions including non-course related questions.
- The Respondus LockDown Browser limits students’ activity on the computer they use to take the test. It does not prevent them from texting or chatting with others on a different device (e.g., phone).
Accessibility
Respondus is committed to ensuring that LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor meet the diverse accessibility needs of all learners. Review this information from the vendor.