Respondus

Notice to students using Respondus Lockdown browser and monitor

If USCA students have issues with Respondus Lockdown Browser, please review Respondus Student Resources or contact Respondus Support. Please note that Chromebooks are not supported by Respondus, but you may contact the USCA Help Desk for more information about taking Respondus exams in USC Aiken's 24-hour access computer labs.

Use of Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor

Courses that use video recording during exams with Respondus Monitor will now be free for students to use for unlimited exams in all courses. Students must acquire a webcam and laptop for courses that use Respondus Monitor for examinations.

Is Respondus LockDown Browser Software required?

Yes. Respondus Monitor is a "companion product" for Respondus LockDown Browser and cannot be used without the LockDown Browser. Students must download the Respondus Lockdown Browser to access associated exams.

How do Students Download the Respondus LockDown Browser Software?

SYLLABUS VERBIAGE: Please utilize the information below to add to your syllabus or course information.

To use Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, you will need a high-speed internet connection, a webcam (internal or external), a Windows or Apple Operating System, and a photo ID. You must download the Respondus Lockdown Browser to access and take associated exams. The webcam can be built into your computer or can be the type that plugs in with a USB cable. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of LockDown Browser and the webcam feature. A student Quick Start Guide is also available.

First, download and install USCA's Respondus LockDown Browser for PC or Mac here.

What do Students Need to Know Before Taking an Exam with Respondus?

When taking an online exam that requires LockDown Browser and a webcam, remember the following guidelines:

1. Ensure you're in a location where you won't be interrupted.
2. Turn off all other devices (e.g. tablets, phones, second computers) and place them outside of your reach.
3. Clear your desk of all external materials not permitted — books, papers, and other devices.
4. Before starting the text, know how much time is available for it, and that you’ve allotted sufficient time to complete it.
5. Remain at your computer for the duration of the test.
6. If the computer or networking environment is different than what was used previously with the Webcam Check and System & Network Check in LockDown Browser, run the checks again before starting the test.
7. To produce a good webcam video, do the following:
   • Avoid wearing baseball caps or hats with brims.
   • Ensure your computer or tablet is on a firm surface (a desk or table). Do NOT have the computer on your lap, a bed or other surface where the device (or you) are likely to move.
   • If using a built-in webcam, avoid tilting the screen after the webcam setup is complete.
   • Take the exam in a well-lit room and avoid backlighting, such as sitting with your back to a window.
8. Remember that LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you cannot exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted.

To ensure LockDown Browser and the webcam are set up properly, do the following:

1. Open the Respondus LockDown Browser icon on your desktop, log into Blackboard, and select your course.
2. Locate and select the Help Center button on the LockDown Browser toolbar. 
3. Run the Webcam Check and, if necessary, resolve any issues.
4. Run the System & Network Check. If a problem is indicated, see if a solution is provided in the Knowledge Base. Troubleshooting information can also be emailed to the USCA help desk. 
5. Exit the Help Center and locate the exam. 
6. Upon completing and submitting the exam, exit LockDown Browser.