When to Use?
Instructors should consider accessibility resources and apply best practices when using Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor to ensure that all students have equitable access to tests and exams.
Procedure
By focusing on accessibility, instructors can create a testing environment that supports academic integrity while ensuring that all students can demonstrate their knowledge and skills without unnecessary obstacles.
Best Practices for Using Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor in Your Ultra Course - Instructor
Instructors should consider these best practices for setting up Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor for use with their Blackboard assessments.
Create a Practice Test
Offer a practice test to allow students to familiarize themselves with the LockDown Browser environment and to identify any accessibility issues prior to taking a gradable exam.
Assistive Technology Compatibility
Be mindful that some assistive technologies may not work with LockDown Browser. Confirm what is supported in advance and consult with Student Accessibility Resources (SAR) to address specific student needs.
Setting Accommodations (SAR) for Individual Students in the Roster in Blackboard Ultra
You can set accommodations for individual students. In Learn Ultra courses, accommodations only need to be set one time for a student, and they will apply to every assessment within the course. You can also exempt students from assessment due dates or time limits.
Exceptions on a Test or Assignment for an Individual Student in Ultra Course View
When special circumstances arise, you can give an individual student an exception on a specific test or assignment. An exception includes additional attempts, rescheduled due dates, or extended access, even if the assessment is hidden from other students.
Content Release Conditions - Visibility Settings
When you set date/time or performance release conditions, under “When will content appear?”, select Show so that students can view the date and time the content will be released, the conditions they need to meet, and when they can no longer access it.
Breaks and Multiple Testing Sessions
If students need breaks, consider structuring the test into parts or allowing multiple testing sessions. LockDown Browser does not support pausing or resuming an exam once started. Screen readers can have difficulty reading long pages of content. The recommendation is no more than 15 test questions per page.
Accessible Question Formats
Use straightforward question types (e.g., multiple-choice, true/false, short answer) to ensure compatibility. Avoid complex question formats that may be challenging for assistive technologies.
Allowing Alternative Assessments
If LockDown Browser cannot fully support a student’s accommodations, provide an alternative assessment option (like an oral or written exam).
Font Size and Color Contrast
While LockDown Browser limits browser settings, ensure the assessment design on Blackboard has sufficient font size and contrast for readability. Blackboard allows some customization of text and background colors to improve visual accessibility.
Keyboard Navigation
Ensure students are aware of keyboard shortcuts within the LockDown Browser, as mouse-free navigation is limited.
Share Technical Support Resources
Provide students with contact information for IT Services and Respondus Technical Support. Include links to the IT Services Knowledge Base for additional help and support.