Respondus Best Practices

Inform your students about test formats (online/in-person) and any equipment requirements (e.g., webcams) to take Respondus LockDown Browser & Monitor exams. It is recommended that you include this information in your Syllabus.

It is best to set a time limit and use “Open attempts are submitted automatically” under Moodle Quiz> Edit Settings > Timing when configuring your tests. Using these settings assists Moodle and Respondus in preserving student work in case the student does not submit prior to running out of time, or in case of a network disruption.


Other tips:

  • Create a mock-up test to allow your students to practice and get familiar with the process, test out their equipment, and troubleshoot any issues.
  • ALWAYS have paper copies on hand in case of technical issues. 
  • It is recommended that the Moodle window (i.e., Open and Close under Moodle Quiz> Edit Settings > Timing) for the exam be larger than the time limit set for the exam.
  • Do not use the “lock students into the browser until the exam is a completed” option from the Respondus LockDown Browser Dashboard, under Advanced Settings.
  • Consider allowing multiple attempts for low stakes assessments.
  • Consider displaying test results such as correct and incorrect answers after the closing date or after all attempts are graded when proctoring online exams.
  • The time limit can be based on the number of questions and complexity of the exam, but should factor in a "grace period" to allow for possible technical issues.
  • Please remember to add extended time (using a Group override) for students with testing accommodations as confirmed by the Tramble Centre.
  • Communicate detailed instructions for the exam upfront (including how many questions, types of questions, etc.) so students feel prepared for the exam.
  • Make your expectations clear to your students about allowable resources. When using Respondus Monitor, explain in detail how to perform the environment check and show permissible resources.
  • Choose to display questions randomly from a large question bank organized into categories to assist with academic integrity.
  • Ask your students to contact the StFX Online Support to report any technical issues encountered while using Respondus LockDown Browser. The support team will assist students with the problems and get your approval if exams need to be reopened.
  • If the course is a copy, please remember to open the LockDown Browser Dashboard once before students began taking exams to resolve any errors.

Instructions adapted from University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.