What do Faculty Need to Know about Respondus LockDown Browser ?

Respondus LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within a learning management system.

How does this browser work? 

  • Exams are displayed full-screen and cannot be minimized
  • Browser menu and toolbar options are removed, except for Back, Forward, Refresh and Stop options
  • No access to other applications including messaging, screen-sharing, virtual machines, and remote desktops
  • Printing and screen capture functions are disabled
  • Copying and pasting anything to or from an assessment is prevented
  • Right-click menu options, function keys, keyboard shortcuts and task switching are disabled
  • An assessment cannot be exited until the student submits it for grading
  • Assessments that are set up for use with LockDown Browser cannot be accessed with other browsers

Respondus is integrated with Canvas. Instructors need to enable the Lockdown browser option on a Canvas course site.

  • Video: Introduction to LockDown Browser for Canvas

Introduction to LockDown Browser for Canvas Links to an external site. Links to an external site.

  • Video: Preparing a Quiz with LockDown Browser in Canvas

Preparing a Quiz for Use with LockDown Browser in Canvas Links to an external site.

Important:

Using  Respondus lock down browser settings will prevent students from browsing the internet, taking screenshots of or copying exam questions, or accessing other folders ONLY on the computer they are using to complete an exam. Respondus does not prevent students from using other devices and resources during the exam. 

Get Students Ready

Before the exam, we encourage faculty to:

  • communicate to the students that the Respondus LockDown Browser will be used to secure online exams. Here is a sample communication that can be  emailed, posted on the site, and included in the syllabus. 
  • provide information about the Respondus support resources for students
  • schedule a practice test with the Respondus settings to make sure all students check their hardware, software and internet connection, especially if  exam questions include  a lot of images or videos. 

The "What Students Need to Know about Respondus LockDown Browser?" module on this site will help prepare students for using the Respondus LocDown browser. It includes a practice test that students can take to check their hardware, software, and internet connection. The module is shared via Canvas Commons. Instructors can  download and import this module to a Canvas course site as a resource for students. Click to download "What do Students need to Know about Respondus?" Links to an external site.