General Syllabus Statement

Copy and paste the following text into your course or simply link to this page. This information is also provided on the Core Syllabus Statement page.


Respondus LockDown Browser is a client-based application that "locks down" a computer or device during an online exam delivered on a third-party assessment platform, such as a Learning Management System (LMS). Privacy information for Respondus LockDown Browser.

Respondus Monitor is a companion product for LockDown Browser that enables students to record themselves with a webcam and microphone during an online exam. The recordings and other data from the exam session are processed automatically; summary information is provided to the instructor, such as if the student left the video frame during the exam session. Privacy information for Respondus Monitor.

Using LockDown Browser and a Webcam for Online Exams

This course requires the use of LockDown Browser and a webcam for online exams. The webcam can be built into your computer or can be the type that plugs in with a USB cable. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of LockDown Browser and the webcam feature.

Follow this link for instructions for downloading and installing LockDown Browser.


Additional information that may be helpful as you support your students during exams

To take an online test: 

  1. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect you to the Internet.
  2. Log into eLearning (https://elearning.uwf.edu/) select your course and navigate to the quiz.
  3. Click the “Launch LockDown Browser” button to open LockDown Browser and start the quiz.
  4. If prompted, either close a blocked program (e.g. screen capture, instant messaging) by choosing Yes. Or, close LockDown Browser and close the blocked program before restarting.
  5. If the instructor requires a test password, a new window will appear asking for the Exam Password. Enter the password and click Begin Exam.
  6. The test will then start. (Note, once a test has been started with Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot exit until the Submit button is clicked

Finally, when taking an online exam, follow these guidelines:

  • Ensure you're in a location where you won't be interrupted
  • Turn off all mobile devices, phones, etc.
  • Clear your desk of all external materials — books, papers, other computers, or devices
  • Remain at your desk or workstation for the duration of the test
  • If a webcam is required, make sure it is plugged in or enabled before starting LockDown Browser
  • LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you will be unable to exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted
  • If a webcam is required, you will be recorded during the test to ensure you're using only permitted resources

Best Practices for Students:

Below is a listing of events that may flag the video when you are taking the test as potential misconduct.    Please read below and try to avoid:

  • Missing from Frame — the student could not be detected in the video frame for a period of time
  • Different person in Frame — a different person from whom started the exam may have been detected in the video frame for a period of time
  • Multiple persons in Frame — multiple faces are detected in the video for a period of time
  • An Internet interruption occurred — a video interruption occurred as a result of an internet failure
  • Video frame rate lowered due to quality of internet connection — if a poor upload speed is detected with the internet connection, the frame rate is automatically lowered for the webcam video
  • Student exited LockDown Browser early — the student used a manual process to terminate the exam session early; the reason provided by the student is shown
  • A webcam was disconnected — the web camera was disconnected from the computing device during the exam
  • A webcam was connected — a web camera was connected to the computing device during the exam
  • An attempt was made to switch to another screen or application — indicates an application-switching swipe or keystroke combination was attempted
  • Video session terminated early — indicates the video session terminated unexpectedly, and that it didn't automatically reconnect before the exam was completed by the student.