Lock Down Browser (LDB) is a customized browser that increases the security of online testing in MyClasses. When students use Respondus LDB to access an assessment, they are unable to print, copy, go to another URL, access other applications, or close a test until it is submitted for grading. Tests created for use with LDB cannot be accessed with standard browsers. The browser works much like a standard browser (i.e. Internet Explorer, Firefox or Safari), but some options have been removed or work differently. The list below highlights some of these differences.
- Modified Toolbar - the condensed toolbar includes only Forward, Back, Refresh and Stop functions.
Test Mode - tests are shown full-screen and cannot be minimized, resized, or exited until submitted for grading.
Disabled Controls - all printing, keystroke combinations, screen grab, function keys, and right-click menus have been disabled.
- Links - links to other web servers do not compromise the secure testing environment.
- Blocked Features & Applications - the Start button (Windows), system tray, and menu bars have been removed. Hundreds of screen-capture, messaging, screen-sharing and network monitoring applications are blocked.
Enabling LockDown Browser for an Assessment
To set up an assessment in MyClasses to require students to use LDB:
- Log into MyClasses and enter the desired course.
- From the course navigation, select Respondus LockDown Browser. If this option is not visible, follow the Enabling LockDown Browser in your course to add LDB to your course menu.
- A list of deployed tests will be displayed.
- To change the settings for the test:
- Click the drop-down arrow to the left of the test
- Select Modify Settings from the menu
- Select Require Respondus Lockdown Browser for this exam. Optionally you may enter a test password that students must enter to start the test in LDB.
- Select the option Require LDB to view feedback + results to restrict students from printing test results.
- Click Save and Close.
- The test is now set to require LDB and the text “Requires Respondus LockDown Browser” will be added to the assessment title.
- Advanced Settings include allowing students to take the test with an iPad and allowing specific students to access the test with screen readers is also available.
What if a student uses a browser other than the LDB?
If the settings for a test require that LDB be used, it cannot be accessed with a standard browser. If the student attempts to take the test using a standard browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari. etc.…) the student will be prompted with a warning “This quiz requires Lockdown Browser. Please launch Respondus LockDown Browser to take the quiz or view your quiz results.”