Set up Respondus Lockdown Browser Tests in Blackboard

About Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB):

o Respondus LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment in
Blackboard.
o When students use LockDown Browser to take a Blackboard test, they are unable to print, copy,
go to other websites, access other applications, or close a Test until it is submitted for grading.
o Tests created for use with LockDown Browser cannot be accessed with standard browsers.
o Once Lockdown Browser is run, many standard functions are removed or disabled:
o Toolbar only includes Forward, Back, Refresh and Stop functions
o Test Mode: Tests are shown full-screen, and cannot be minimized, resized, or exited until
submitted for grading
o Disabled Controls: Printing, keystroke combinations, screen grab/capture, function keys,
and right-click menus are disabled
o Links: Links to other web servers open in a new, secure windows, and prevent browsing
beyond that one page
o Blocked Features and Applications: Start button, system tray, and menu bars are
removed.
Steps to create a Test using Respondus LockDown Browser:
1. Test must be deployed (linked for students) in course
2. In Control Panel, Course Tools, click Respondus LockDown Browser

a. If Respondus Lockdown Browser is not available, follow steps #2.b, #2.c

RLDB.docx 1
 b. In Control Panel, Customisation choose Tool Availability

c. Scroll down to Respondus LockDown Browser, click in the Available checkbox (left
side), click Submit (bottom right)

3. After clicking on Respondus LockDown Browser the Respondus Lockdown Browser

Dashboard screen displays, listing all deployed Tests
a. Tests requiring LockDown Browser are labeled Required
b. Tests that do not require Lockdown Browser are labeled Not Required
4. To change the Test settings to use Respondus LockDown Browser, click the drop-down arrow to
the left of the Test name, click Modify Settings

5. Click in the radio button Require Respondus Lockdown Browser for this exam
a. Note: you can choose to also enter a Test password that students must type in to start
the Test. Lockdown Browser prompts the student to type in the instructor-provided
password before proceeding. This is commonly used in a proctored Test environment.

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 b. The Lockdown Browser Settings window expands with further options

5c.ii
.

5e.

c. Note: There are three options in Advanced Settings

i. May be used in a proctored Test environment (optional)
ii. Recommended: allows students to take the Test using an iPad and the free
LockDown Browser app.
iii. Allows screen reader accessibility programs
d. Monitor Webcam Settings: ignore (not in use)
e. Click Save and Close (bottom right side)
6. Next Steps:
a. Make the unique Douglas College Respondus LockDown Browser setup
program/installer available for students
http://www.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=474545144
Notes:
i. Mac users: on the first Respondus screen, click on Do you need the Mac
version (left side) and follow those instructions
ii. iPad users: Instructors: choose that option in 5c.ii above in Advanced Settings;
download the free Lockdown Browser app. and follow instructions in the Student
handout for how to set up.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lockdown-browser/id659101775?mt=8
b. Include full instructions for students for downloading and using LockDown Browser (see
Appendix)
c. Make and deploy a Practice Test using Respondus LockDown Browser for students to
practice taking on their home, etc. computer (especially an iPad) before taking any actual
Test using Lockdown Browser

© Douglas College 2014 All Rights Reserved

Produced by Academic Technology Services
Centre for Educational and Information Technology

RLDB.docx Page 3 / 4
Appendix
1. Information to add to your Course Outline
2. Overview for your students [video 2 minutes]
3. Unique RLDB for Douglas College

1. Information to add to your Course Outline:

The sample text below can be used in your course or syllabus. It explains that students must use
LockDown Browser for their online tests.

Using LockDown Browser for Online Exams

This course requires the use of LockDown Browser for online exams. Watch this short video
[http://www.respondus.com/products/lockdown-browser/student-movie.shtml] to get a basic
understanding of LockDown Browser and the optional webcam feature (which may be required for some
exams).

Then download and install LockDown Browser from this link (PC/Mac versions):
http://www.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=474545144

To take an online test, start LockDown Browser and navigate to the exam. (You won't be able to access
the exam with a standard web browser.) For additional details on using LockDown Browser, review this
Student Quick Start Guide (PDF).

Finally, when taking an online exam, follow these guidelines:

•Ensure you're in a location where you won't be interrupted
•Turn off all mobile devices, phones, etc.
•Clear your desk of all external materials — books, papers, other computers, or devices
•Remain at your desk or workstation for the duration of the test
•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

2. An Overview for your Students [Video 2 minutes]

http://www.respondus.com/products/lockdown-browser/student-movie.shtml

3. Douglas College unique setup program/installer (PC/Mac versions):

http://www.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=474545144

IF enabled (in Test RLDB settings) students can use free app. for iPad:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lockdown-browser/id659101775?mt=8

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