Lockdown Browser Windows 20701
Students can use Respondus technologies to stop cheating on UB Learns non-proctored examinations. A customized browser restricts access to the testing environment, preventing students from printing, copying, visiting other websites, or using programs while taking an exam.
It prevents them from using email and instant messaging services, disables keyboard shortcuts and right mouse clicks, and records any video that might show suspicious activity while conducting testing. Even test portions with possible illegal activity are flagged for closer examination.
What is Lockdown Browser?
While taking an online test or quiz, students cannot use any other programs, print documents, go to other URLs, or use any other capabilities thanks to the specially designed web browser known as Lockdown Browser. It enables instructors to record student behavior and flag suspicious actions for further review when used in conjunction with Respondus Monitor, the proctoring software that is built into this browser. This helps to ensure that assessments are given fairly and that cheating does not occur during online assessments.
In contrast to certain proctoring applications, Lockdown Browser entirely rewrites the operating system of a computer, including every section that regulates the functionality and security of any given device. Many security experts think that because it is obtrusive, the likelihood of hacker assaults and device failures is increased.
Although students still use keyboard and mouse movement during the evaluation process, the browser restricts most common browser operations including copying, pasting, and printing in addition to preventing users from accessing other programs. However, it’s important to note that using a browser won’t stop other students in the classroom from attempting to cheat on the exam, and they may still have access to paper cheat sheets or other types of assistance if they choose.
If a student wants to use Lockdown Browser, they need to install it on a computer with the necessary software. For convenience, download installers from UB Learns that are already set up to work with Respondus software. Students can now log into Canvas at Yale and take any tests or exams that need it, then turn on Lockdown Browser as necessary.
When instructors assign quizzes or exams that call for Respondus Lockdown Browser software, they will add a link to Canvas assignments that will take students directly to a page where they can download Respondus Lockdown Browser and Proctorus Monitor application. After following the on-screen instructions to create accounts and verify identities, students will then be redirected back to their exams where they can take them as directed.
How Does Lockdown Browser Work?
Students cannot access any other websites or programs on their computer while taking an exam thanks to LockDown Browser, which also prohibits screen capture software from interfering with quizzes or tests. LockDown Browser runs as a separate window on the student’s PC. Additionally, if they’re already in a Zoom meeting when Lockdown browser opens, it will automatically end the meeting and end their session.
Students must access a URL within their learning management system that is unique to their institution in order to utilize the Respondus Monitor browser. They must then follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the Respondus Monitor software. When the file has been downloaded, students can return to their course and select a test to take. In order to continue taking graded tests with their default browser, Respondus Monitor installation may be required.
After installation, students are sent to a website with login details for the learning management system at their school. Once students join in, tests and quizzes will open in full screen mode so they cannot be minimized or interrupted by other computer programs while being taken. Back, Forward, Refresh, Stop Print, and other common browser features are still available, but right-click menus and keybinding combinations are no longer available.
The browser can not only stop students from leaving the test page, but it can also track each student’s mouse movements and keep an eye on their actual surroundings to look for signs of cheating. Teachers can be promptly notified to any questionable activity and identify kids for either low or high visual ratings.
A Quit Password can be shared by a teacher with a student who feels they have been unjustly penalized so they can manually exit LockDown browser mode. This should only be done, though, in extreme cases, as when a person’s equipment isn’t working properly and they can’t take the test or quiz. Ideally, students should refrain from using this option again until after taking and passing their quiz or exam.
What Are the Benefits of Lockdown Browser?
In order to stop cheating during online exams, quizzes, and assessments, browser lockout software is utilized. It can be used on both private devices and those controlled by organizations (like office PCs). While taking exams, the software restricts pupils to utilizing the internet and bans all other programs and applications. In some cases, recording may also take place; this feature will only be enabled if an instructor suspects cheating has occurred and cannot be watched by the general public. The recordings itself remain secretly viewable and can only be requested for viewing by authorized personnel.
In addition to limiting students’ access to websites and programs, lockdown software can also identify exam-cheating tools like screen-sharing software and numerous monitors, ensuring the success of proctored exams with high stakes. Unfortunately, many students still need the help of human proctors when taking these tests.
Students should be aware of a browser lockdown tool’s restrictions before to taking an exam or quiz. It is important to let students know that utilizing it won’t shield them from phishing scams or other criminal conduct, and that trying to get around it could have serious consequences.
Although Lockdown Browser has several benefits, it might not be the most dependable proctoring option. As a result, educators should look at alternative tests or methods for maintaining academic integrity during e-learning exams. In order to minimize disruptions and give every student an equal opportunity to finish their tests, technical assistance should also be provided to students who are having problems with their browser. Finally, it is crucial that we carefully examine the information gathered by the Respondus Lockdown Browser in order to safeguard students’ right to privacy and to let them know that using Canvas courses requires them to download and install the Respondus Lockdown Browser.
What Are the Drawbacks of Lockdown Browser?
The browser lockdown program was created as an anti-cheating measure in a learning environment that is becoming more and more reliant on online instruction and assessment. Sadly, students have voiced worries about its violation of privacy and inability to catch various sorts of dishonesty. Additionally, this approach cannot be defeated by utilizing several devices or taking screenshots of one’s screen, which has some students worried that it won’t be able to catch all they do online.
The purpose of lockdown browsers is to prevent students from accessing unauthorized software while limiting access to desktop apps, web browser tabs, and keyboard shortcuts. This software is only useful if an online exam has the option for video/audio proctoring. They also record and monitor student activity through webcam and microphone recording capabilities, but they cannot tell if someone is taking notes with paper notes, devices, or consulting with others in the room.
Many students find it unsettling to have to download and install the software themselves prior to taking an exam; this may cause anxiety for those using older Windows or Mac operating systems and may result in technical difficulties during an exam session. Students may worry that their university may use the software for reviewing student records or for other purposes.
Students have also expressed concerns about the Respondus Lockdown Browser’s potential to infect their computers with spyware or malware, which could cause their computers to slow down or become unstable after installation. Others have reported difficulty uninstalling the software, and others have reported freezing or crashing of their PCs as a result of the Respondus Lockdown Browser’s presence.
Browsers can still be a tremendous help to schools looking to improve the caliber of remote tests, despite their restrictions. Limiting access to other programs on a student’s laptop or tablet and requiring them to only use this browser can reduce academic dishonesty while also lowering anxiety by allowing practice tests on separate PCs before an exam.