When LockDown Browser works best
LockDown Browser is at its strongest when it is used the way it was originally designed, which is in a proctored, in person setting. Think a classroom, computer lab, or dedicated testing center where a person is physically present while students test. In that setting, LockDown Browser handles the digital side of things, blocking access to other websites, applications, and messaging tools, while a live proctor handles everything else, like making sure a student is not using their phone or a paper note sheet.
Used this way, LockDown Browser is a strong tool. It is much less reliable on its own for fully remote, unproctored testing, since it cannot see or control what is happening around a student's computer, only what happens on the screen itself. If remote testing is unavoidable, pairing LockDown Browser with Respondus Monitor, which adds webcam recording, closes some of that gap, though it still is not a substitute for a person in the room.
Recommended best practices
Set up a short, low stakes practice quiz using LockDown Browser before the real exam. This gives students a chance to install the software, work out any technical hiccups, and get comfortable with the experience ahead of time, which cuts down on stress and support requests on exam day.
Let students know ahead of time, ideally in your syllabus, that LockDown Browser will be required and what that means for them. A short note pointing them to the student guide goes a long way.
If you are proctoring in person, bring a few paper copies of the exam just in case a student runs into a technical issue and needs a backup option.
Frequently asked questions for faculty
Does LockDown Browser record my students?
No. LockDown Browser by itself does not use a webcam or record anything. It only restricts what a student can access on their device while the quiz is open. Recording is a separate feature that comes from Respondus Monitor.
Can students take a LockDown Browser quiz on a Chromebook?
Yes, through a Chrome extension rather than the desktop application used for Windows and Mac. iPad access is also possible if you enable that option in the quiz settings.
What happens if a student's computer crashes or they lose power mid quiz?
Canvas quiz settings, such as allowing multiple attempts or extending time for a specific student, still apply. LockDown Browser does not change how Canvas handles those situations, so your normal quiz accommodations and troubleshooting steps still work.
Do I need to install anything as the instructor?
No. LockDown Browser is turned on through your Canvas course navigation menu. Only students need to install the actual application.
Frequently asked questions for students
Do I need to buy anything?
No. LockDown Browser is free to download and install.
Can I use my phone or tablet to take the quiz?
Only if your instructor has specifically allowed iPad use for that quiz. Phones are not supported.
What if I forget to close a program before starting?
LockDown Browser will prompt you and will not let the quiz begin until background programs are closed. Just click Yes when asked.
What if my quiz freezes or LockDown Browser will not open?
Try restarting your computer and reopening LockDown Browser. If the issue continues, reach out to [insert your support contact here] as soon as possible so you do not lose testing time.
Other resources