Why do professors use the LockDown Browser?

Professors use LockDown Browser primarily to prevent cheating during online exams by creating a secure testing environment, locking students into the assessment and blocking access to other applications, websites, copying/pasting, and screen captures, ensuring fairness and academic integrity, especially for high-stakes tests. It aims to replicate in-person exam conditions by preventing access to unauthorized resources, phones, and collaborators, often paired with Respondus Monitor for webcam recording.

What do professors see on Respondus LockDown Browser?

If students were required to use the webcam feature (Respondus Monitor) with the quiz, instructors can access information about the quiz sessions and can review the recorded videos. Note that Respondus Monitor is intended to be a deterrent, so it's up to the instructor to determine the level of review warranted.

Why do teachers use the LockDown Browser?

LockDown Browser prevents digital cheating during online tests. Students cannot print, copy, or go to another website—everything is locked down until the exam is submitted for grading.

Can teachers tell if you don't use the LockDown Browser?

Keep in mind that LockDown Browser does not monitor, restrict, or flag student behavior. Therefore, we do not recommend that students be asked to use LockDown Browser when they are taking online quizzes outside of a proctored situation.

Do professors actually check proctorio?

Students should treat their Proctorio exam just like an exam they would take in the testing center. If any issues are found in a Proctorio exam, a report is sent to the professor to review. If the activity is deemed as any form of academic dishonesty, the Honor Code Office will be notified.

What can professors see on Respondus LockDown Browser?

What triggers the Proctorio flag?

Common Reasons for Flags

Here are some typical triggers that might raise a digital eyebrow from Proctorio: Looking away from the screen (even briefly) Background movement (like someone walking by) Sudden noises (a doorbell, your pet, or your sibling)

How do professors detect cheating?

Websites like Copyscape.com, Turnitin.com and PlagiarismChecker.com are favorites of professors who want to check sentences, phrases and whole documents. These sites compare what the professor enters with papers that are online and in the sites' databases.

Does the LockDown Browser look at your eyes?

Does Respondus Track Eye Movement? As you use the Respondus LockDown Browser, it will track your eye movements. Before beginning the exam or test session, students must have their camera set up so that it captures their entire face, eyes, and all.

Can Respondus detect phone use?

Yes, Respondus Monitor is designed to detect phones and other handheld devices during exams by flagging suspicious activity like using secondary devices, even if only partially visible, using AI to spot them in webcam footage. While LockDown Browser itself secures the primary computer, Monitor provides the video proctoring that spots phones, which are generally not allowed and can lead to flagged results for instructors to review. 

Can online assessments detect cheating?

Many platforms also use detection algorithms to monitor unusual patterns in test-taking behavior, helping flag potential cheating in real time.

Can teachers see your screen on your personal computer?

Teachers can only see what you are doing in your school account, not in your personal accounts. You can protect your privacy by keeping school and personal browsing separate and by logging out of your school account when you are done with schoolwork.

Why do schools block everything fun?

Distraction. Facebook, gaming sites, moviemaking sites, and other fun sites can altogether make the students compromise on their studies. Through banishing various sites, schools set the focus and even work to create an innovative learning environment.

Does the LockDown Browser watch your camera?

If you are required to use Respondus LockDown Browser with Respondus Monitor, you will need to take your test with a webcam. This will record you during your online, nonproctored exam. The webcam feature is what is referred to as “Respondus Monitor.” Your computer must have a functioning webcam and microphone.

Can Canvas see if you switch tabs if not proctored?

Similarly, Canvas does not natively detect tab switching during non-proctored quizzes. But with proctoring tools enabled, any attempts by students to switch tabs or browse unauthorized websites can be identified and prevented. Students are locked into the Canvas tab running the online test.

Can proctored exams detect two monitors?

Multiple monitors/displays are not supported. If you have more than one monitor, you will need to disconnect all but one.

What is flagged on Respondus LockDown Browser?

Respondus will record student movements and will automatically flag the exam if a student leaves the view, if their eyes wander, or if another person comes into the screen.

How strict is the LockDown Browser?

Students are unable to open any browser other than the LockDown browser on the device they are using. This disallows them from searching for answers online while taking the exam. Also, students are not allowed to open other applications unless the professor specifically and selectable permits them to.

Does Respondus know if you switch tabs?

Proctored Tests: In some tests, you use a program called Respondus monitor. It lets Blackboard or Canvas know if you swap between tabs. This could make the program take you back to the test page.

Can the LockDown Browser see your second Monitor?

Students may not use more than one monitor when taking tests using Respondus Lockdown Browser. Before beginning, disconnect the additional monitors and then open LockDown Browser.

What are the disadvantages of Respondus LockDown Browser?

The Respondus LockDown Browser has several limitations. It only supports Windows and macOS, requiring students to download and test it beforehand. Many classrooms lack enough power outlets, so students need to manage battery consumption during quizzes.

How do you know if the LockDown Browser will record you?

If you see a recording icon while taking your test online on Lockdown browser, it means that it is recording you. A web-cam pre-check before the test is also an indication that you will be recorded.

Can the teacher see you on Respondus LockDown Browser?

Respondus has added screen recording to Monitor, allowing instructors to view both the student and their on-screen activity when reviewing flagged incidents.

What is the 70 30 rule in teaching?

The 70/30 rule in teaching is a principle that shifts focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centered, active learning, suggesting students should do 70% of the talking/practice and teachers 30% of direct instruction, or that teachers plan 70% for activities and 30% for content, promoting deeper engagement and skill development over passive reception, particularly in language learning. 

How do I prove I didn't plagiarize?

Check if flagged content includes properly cited quotes or paraphrased text, common phrases, references, or bibliography entries. Gather evidence to support your case. Compile proof of originality and proper sourcing, such as notes, drafts of papers, source materials, and communication records.

Can professors tell if I use ChatGPT?

Yes, professors can often tell if you use ChatGPT through AI detection software (like Turnitin, GPTZero, Originality.ai), by spotting stylistic inconsistencies (generic, overly formal, or repetitive writing), factual errors, fabricated sources, or by comparing the AI-generated work to your previous submissions and in-class understanding. While no method is foolproof, a combination of tools and human observation makes detection increasingly likely, especially with careless use.