What is Respondus LockDown Browser?
Respondus LockDown Browser is a customized, secure web browser that prevents digital cheating during online exams. It locks students into the testing environment by disabling printing, copy-pasting, screen capturing, and the ability to visit other websites or open other applications.
When it comes time for an exam in one of your courses, you will have to use RLDB to log into Blackboard and access the test; it’s not enough just to have downloaded it.
How do I download Respondus LockDown Browser?
The Respondus LockDown Browser is specific to each institution that uses it. That means that even if you have RLDB installed from your high school or another college, you will have to download the Lakeland Community College specific version to use with Lakeland classes. Your instructor will include a link in your course site, but you can also download RLDB from the following links:
Windows: https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=587634126
Mac: https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?ostype=2&id=587634126
What about iPads?
RLDB uses a specific iPad app available (for free) in the Apple Store. In addition, the instructor must specifically enable iPad support for each exam.
Do I need to take the test on a certain computer?
You can take a test that requires RLDB from any computer that meets the minimum requirements outlined here: https://web.respondus.com/he/lockdownbrowser/resources/.
How do I access my test?
Double-click the LockDown Browser icon on your desktop (or from the app launcher.) The browser will take you to Lakeland’s Blackboard login screen. Log into Blackboard and navigate to your course and test.
How do I navigate to my test inside the LockDown Browser?
You can navigate the Blackboard course as you normally would.
What is Respondus Monitor?
Respondus Monitor is a remote-proctoring tool that uses a student’s webcam to record the student’s actions during the test. Suspicious activity is flagged for the instructor to review. The instructor can choose to require the student to show an ID and/or pan the camera around the test-taking environment.
Do I need to have my webcam on for Respondus Monitor?
Yes.
Why do I have to do an ID check?
Instructors can choose which Monitor security options to enable. If you are asked to show an ID to the camera, it is because your instructor selected that option.
What is the environment check? What does it accomplish for me?
The environment check (panning your camera around the room) shows the instructor that you are complying with requirements not to use textbooks, notes, etc. during the test.
What happens if I move my face out of the webcam area?
The instructor is notified that suspicious activity has occurred and may review the video.
Once I take my test, what do I do?
Log out of Blackboard normally and close the browser.
How do I close out of the LockDown Browser once I’m finished using it?
Click the X in the upper right corner.
Will I be able to access other websites while using LockDown Browser?
Not unless the instructor has allowed access to specific websites.
What programs can I use while in the LockDown Browser?
No other programs can run during a LockDown Browser session. The instructor can permit access to a calculator app within the browser.
Am I able to leave the exam for any reason? What happens if I lose my internet connection during the test?
Typically, if you exit the test without submitting it, you can restart the browser, log back in, and pick up where you left off. Some instructors may prohibit this – if you exit the test for any reason (including a loss of wireless signal) it automatically submits, and you’re done.
Note that even if exit and re-entry are permitted, the timer keeps running even if you exit the test.
Will I be able to use my textbook while taking the test?
That is up to your instructor.
Do I use Blackboard to take the test or a different website?
Yes. When you start the LockDown Browser it takes you to Lakeland’s Blackboard login page. Log in as usual, go to your course, and locate the test.