What is Respondus LockDown Browser (LDB) and Monitor?

Respondus LockDown Browser (or LDB for short) is a proctoring tool designed to prevent students who are taking Canvas quizzes from using other applications outside of the browser, visiting unauthorized websites, using techniques to share screens or print quizzes. Monitor is a feature built-into LDB that records the screen and webcam of the person using LDB. The video collected by Monitor is analyzed by artificial intelligence for possible red flags for instructors to review.

For a comparison of proctoring solutions see: Digital Learning Environment - Computer LockDown and Proctoring Software Options

Is LockDown Browser a proctoring tool?

LDB itself is a browser that limits students' access to other computer resources, and to unintended web sites. To support digital proctoring fully, Monitor or Zoom must be used in-tandem.

Who can use Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor?

Departments must pay a portion of institutional licensing to use Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor.

If instructors wish to use LDB+Monitor for proctoring, they should get permission from their department, then submit an external tool request. 

Where can students and instructors go for support with Respondus LockDown Browser?

• Support resources for students: Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor - Getting Started (Students)
• View instructor resources, and submit a support request online
• For additional articles visit this Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor Landing Page Article

What should I do if I have an accessibility concern?

Respondus provides guides and other information for users of assistive technologies in their knowledge base. If the guides do not help, communicate the concern with the course instructor and the UWM's Accessibility Resource Center (ARC). 

To report general accessibility concerns with the Respondus website or products, email accessibility@respondus.com.

What are the alternatives to Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor?

LDB is not available to all UWM faculty and staff, and its use is discouraged. Acquiring the tool requires a purchase by your department. Lower cost or free alternatives are available. 

Proctoring is one technique intended to defer academic dishonesty (specifically cheating on exams). While there are circumstances where it may be necessary, instructors are strongly encouraged to consider alternatives to digital proctoring tools. Techniques such as offering multiple smaller assessments, open-book assessments, annotation exercises, presentations or essays are all potential alternatives that can reduce the stress and accessibility concerns of proctoring. To discuss implementing alternatives to proctoring in your course, contact the CETL Spport Commons.