Respondus LockDown Browser (for Instructors)

Syracuse University has licensed Respondus Lockdown Browser. This is an additional security setting within Blackboard Tests that you can use to require students to access selected Tests only by using Respondus Lockdown Browser.

How LockDown Browser Works

Assessments are displayed full-screen and cannot be minimized
Browser menu and toolbar options are removed, except for Back, Forward, Refresh and Stop
Prevents 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

Here is a brief introductory video that shows how LockDown Browser works from the student perspective: Watch the Overview Video

Your students will need to download and install Respondus LDB in order to take any tests that require it. It is strongly recommended that you have your students install LDB prior to test day.

A good way to do this is to have a practice test (with perhaps only a single question). When students try to start the test with a different browser (e.g. Chrome or Firefox), they will be prompted to install LDB. After the installation, LDB will launch and students will be able to start their practice test.

Make it clear to students that they must have a device with Respondus LDB installed on the day of the actual test.

Students can also download LockDown Browser from here: https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=482591874

Respondus has a page of instructor resources including Quick-Start Guides and example verbiage to include in your syllabus here: https://web.respondus.com/he/lockdownbrowser/resources/

Here is a video guide showing the steps to use LDB in Blackboard:

https://cdnapisec.kaltura.com/p/2707131/sp/270713100/embedIframeJs/uiconf_id/45992501/partner_id/2707131?iframeembed=true&playerId=kplayer&entry_id=1_qbuvp840&flashvars[streamerType]=auto%22