Mastering Secure Online Exams with Respondus LockDown Browser in Cobra Learning

In the realm of online education, maintaining the integrity of assessments is paramount. For educators utilizing platforms like Cobra Learning, Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB) emerges as a vital tool. This specialized browser ensures a secure testing environment by restricting access to external resources during quizzes and exams. If your instructor employs RLDB for assessments within Cobra Learning, understanding its functionality is crucial for a smooth and fair testing experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Respondus LockDown Browser with Cobra Learning, ensuring you are fully prepared for your next online exam.

Navigating Quizzes in Cobra Learning with Respondus LockDown Browser

Taking a quiz in Cobra Learning using RLDB is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Preparation is Key: Begin by closing all applications on your computer, except for any necessary for internet connectivity. This minimizes potential conflicts and ensures a focused testing environment.

2. Access Cobra Learning: Open your regular web browser and log into your Cobra Learning account. Navigate to your specific course and locate the quiz or exam. You’ll typically see a clear indication that LockDown Browser is required for the assessment.

3. Initiate LockDown Browser: From the quiz page, you will encounter options to either install Respondus LockDown Browser or launch it if it’s already installed on your system.

   • Installation: If RLDB is not yet installed, clicking the provided link will guide you through the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your computer.
   • Launch: If you have already installed RLDB, simply click the “Launch LockDown Browser” button. If you mistakenly click “Launch” without installation, a prompt will appear, directing you to install the software first.

4. Confirm Browser Launch: Once launched, your operating system will likely display a confirmation prompt asking if you want to open LockDown Browser. Ensure you allow pop-ups from Cobra Learning to proceed smoothly.

5. Address Program Conflicts: In some instances, RLDB might detect conflicting programs running on your computer, such as screen capture tools, instant messaging applications, or music players. A prompt will appear, instructing you to disable a second monitor or close these programs. Follow the instructions, close the identified programs, and then relaunch LockDown Browser.

6. Begin Your Quiz: After successfully launching LockDown Browser and resolving any conflicts, the quiz will automatically start within the secure environment. It’s important to note that once a test is initiated within RLDB, you cannot exit the quiz until you click the “Submit” button or provide a reason for exiting. Any premature exits are logged as part of your submission and may be reviewed by your instructor.

Utilizing Testing Centers with Respondus LockDown Browser

For students who prefer or require a dedicated testing environment, many institutions offer testing centers that support Respondus LockDown Browser. These centers provide a controlled and proctored setting to take your Cobra Learning exams. Consult your institution’s website or relevant departments, such as assessment or testing services, to find information about available testing centers, their locations, operating hours, and any specific procedures for using RLDB within these facilities. Often, these centers also offer support for students requiring accessibility accommodations or standardized testing needs. Always verify the specific services and resources available at your institution’s testing centers to ensure a smooth and successful exam experience.

Enhance Exam Security with Respondus Monitor

Taking security a step further, instructors may implement Respondus Monitor in conjunction with LockDown Browser. Respondus Monitor adds a layer of remote proctoring by utilizing your webcam to record you during the exam session. This combination provides a robust solution for maintaining academic integrity in online assessments. To use Respondus Monitor, you will need:

• Computer: A desktop or laptop computer is required. Mobile devices are generally not supported unless specifically permitted by your instructor (e.g., iPads in some cases).
• Webcam and Microphone: A working webcam and microphone are essential, either built-in or external USB devices. Ensure they are functioning correctly before starting your test.
• Stable Internet: A reliable broadband internet connection is crucial. Unstable connections can lead to interruptions during the exam, potentially affecting your performance.

If your instructor mandates Respondus Monitor for a Cobra Learning quiz, you will see a clear indication of this requirement.

Upon clicking the quiz link, you will initially follow the same steps 1 through 5 outlined earlier for Respondus LockDown Browser. Once those steps are completed, the startup sequence for Respondus Monitor will commence, initiating the webcam proctoring process.

Respondus Monitor Startup Sequence: A Step-by-Step Guide

The startup sequence for Respondus Monitor is designed to ensure a secure and properly proctored testing environment. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Terms of Use Agreement: You will first be presented with the Respondus Monitor Terms of Use. Carefully review these terms and agree to them to proceed.

2. Webcam and Microphone Check: Respondus Monitor will then perform a check to verify that your webcam and microphone are functioning correctly. Follow the prompts to ensure both devices are working as expected.

3. Instructor Instructions: Your instructor may provide specific instructions for the quiz through Respondus Monitor. Pay close attention to any additional guidelines displayed on the screen.

4. Guidelines and Best Practices: Respondus Monitor will present a set of guidelines and tips to help you optimize your testing environment and minimize potential flags during the proctoring process. These typically include:

   • Quiet and Private Location: Choose a quiet location free from interruptions, ensuring no other people or media are present.
   • Stable Internet Connection: Verify you have a strong and consistent internet connection, and avoid using other bandwidth-intensive applications during the test.
   • Proper Device Placement: Place your computer or laptop on a flat, stable surface like a desk or table. Avoid testing on your lap, bed, couch, or the floor.
   • Minimize Camera Flags: Reduce potential flags by ensuring good lighting (avoid backlighting from windows), and refraining from wearing sunglasses, hats, caps, or hoodies that might obscure your face.
   • Device Restrictions: Unless explicitly permitted, turn off all other electronic devices (phones, tablets, computers, etc.) and place them out of reach. The presence of these items in your environment scan video may be flagged.

5. Student Photo Capture: You will be prompted to take a photo of yourself using the webcam. Position your face clearly within the frame and capture the photo. You have the option to retake the photo if you are not satisfied with the initial result.

6. Photo ID Verification: Next, you will be asked to present a photo ID (preferably a college-issued ID) to the webcam and take a photo of it. Ensure the ID is clearly visible and legible in the captured image. You can retake the photo if needed.

7. Environment Check Recording: Respondus Monitor requires a brief recording of your testing environment. Use your webcam to slowly pan around your workspace, showing your desk area and the surrounding room. Refer to the guidelines in step 4 for best practices during this environment scan.

8. Facial Detection Video: Finally, you will record a short video of your face within the camera frame. This facial detection video helps the system track your presence and activity throughout the exam.

Throughout the startup sequence, a progress bar on the left side of the screen visually indicates your advancement through each step.

If you encounter any issues during the startup process, look for the “It’s not working” link typically located near the activity buttons. This link often provides troubleshooting tips and guidance to resolve common problems.

Taking Your Exam with Respondus Monitor

Once the startup sequence is successfully completed, your quiz will automatically begin. Remember that Respondus Monitor will be actively recording you via your webcam throughout the entire exam duration. Any prolonged absence from the webcam’s view may be flagged as suspicious activity for your instructor to review. The LockDown Browser will take over your entire computer screen, preventing you from minimizing the browser window or accessing other applications. Proceed with your quiz as you normally would within Cobra Learning, answering questions and navigating through the exam interface.

If you attempt to close the browser window before submitting your exam, a warning message will appear, indicating that your exam is incomplete and offering the option to return to the exam.

If you genuinely need to exit the exam prematurely, you can proceed by clicking the “Close the Browser” button in the warning message. However, you will then be required to provide a reason for leaving the exam early. This reason will be logged as part of your exam submission and will be accessible to your instructor. Insufficient or inadequate explanations for early exit may potentially impact your grade. Also, be aware that the exam timer continues to run even if you close the browser. If you log back in, you will have lost the elapsed time.

Upon successful submission of your exam, you will see a confirmation message indicating that your attempt has been recorded. You will then be prompted to exit Respondus LockDown Browser, returning you to your normal computer desktop environment.

Important Note: The specific version of Respondus LockDown Browser used within Cobra Learning may be institution-specific and may not be compatible with exams at other institutions. Always ensure you are using the correct version provided by your educational institution.

For any technical assistance or troubleshooting related to Respondus LockDown Browser or Respondus Monitor within Cobra Learning, reach out to your institution’s technical support services. They can provide specific guidance and support tailored to your institution’s setup.