Using Respondus LockDown Browser (and a Webcam) for Online Exams (for CUHK Teachers)

Overview

Respondus LockDown Browser is a custom browser that can lock down test/exam environment within Blackboard . If a Blackboard Test requires LockDown Browser be used, students cannot take the test/exam with a standard web browser. For more information, please visit: https://web.respondus.com/he/lockdownbrowser/

Preparation and Setup (by Instructor and/or TA/Support Staff)

  1. Create and deploy a Test in the Blackboard course.
  2. From the Control Panel, locate Course Tools and select Respondus LockDown Browser.
  3. A list of deployed Tests will be displayed. Select Settings from the context menu of the Test.
  4.  Select Require Respondus LockDown Browser for this exam. Optionally, you may create a test/exam password.
  5.  To require all students use a webcam during the exam, select Require Respondus Monitor (automated proctoring) for this exam. You can also enable Record the screen while the student is taking the exam.
  6. Reminder: To preserve the settings used by LockDown Browser, do NOT modify these settings in Test Options: 
    1. Name
    2. Open Test in a New Window
    3. Require a password
    4. Password. 

If these settings have been modified the test/exam status will appear as an "Error."

Result checking

To access information and review the recorded videos of the Tests that require Respondus Monitor:

  1. From the Control Panel, locate Course Tools and select Respondus LockDown Browser.
  2. A list of deployed Tests will be displayed. Select Class Results from the context menu of the Test.

[Important] Known Issue with Respondus Monitor

  • Affected Tests: Any tests with Respondus Monitor enabled.
  • Affected Classes: Classes that include users whose First Name or Last Name fields are blank in Blackboard.
  • Issue Description: Instructors and TA/Support Staff may encounter errors when accessing Class Results or Exam Stats on Respondus Lockdown Browser Dashboard.
    • As a result, recordings and statistics from Respondus Monitor will be inaccessible.
  • Current Status: We are working with the vendor.
  • Recommended Action: Contact us (ITSC Service Desk: https://servicedesk.itsc.cuhk.edu.hk or elearning@cuhk.edu.hk) BEFORE conducting the assessment.

 

Best practices

  1. Make an announcement (or add the information to the course syllabus): sample word document
  2. Set up a practice test/exam for the students
  3. Set up the real test/exam for the students
  4. Require students to

More information

Contact us