Students

When taking exams online, proctoring can occur through the use of proctoring software such as Respondus Monitor. This page provides helpful information and suggestions for students taking proctored assessments.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BE READY FOR A PROCTORED EXAM?

Proctoring sessions at Kent State take place through the use of Respondus Monitor.

Getting Started with Respondus Monitor

1. Download the appropriate version of the Respondus Monitor software:
   • For quizzes that are located in Canvas, download Respondus Lockdown Browser for Canvas. 
   • For quizzes that are located in ALEKS, download Respondus Lockdown Browser for ALEKS. 
   • For quizzes that are located in Pearson MyLab:
     • use Pearson's Bowser Check to install the correct version for Windows, macOS, or non-managed ChromeBooks.
     • on ChromeBooks that are managed by a school or employer, use the Admin Guide for Managed ChromeBooks to install. 
   • For quizzes that are located in WebAssign, download Respondus Lockdown Browser for WebAssign. 
2. Make sure your computer has a working webcam and microphone.
3. To help prepare for actual exams, take any Respondus practice quizzes your instructor has provided.
4. Restart your computer prior to taking an exam.
5. Technical support can be requested by Submitting a Ticket or a Live Chat. 

CAN I FIND A QUIET PLACE TO TAKE A PROCTORED EXAM ON CAMPUS?

Kent State Online maintains a list of proctoring sites across the university. 

CAN I PRACTICE FIRST?

Yes! If an instructor utilizes proctoring through the use of proctoring software, we then recommend a practice session prior to exams, so students can check things out. Please take advantage of practice opportunities, and/or ask your instructor about the possibility of including a practice session prior to your exam. Respondus offers The Student Experience Guide which would be helpful to provide to students. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF I STRUGGLE TO GET MY PROCTORED EXAM STARTED OR IF I HAVE TECHNICAL ISSUES DURING MY PROCTORED EXAM?

Contact Respondus via Chat or by submitting a Support Ticket. 

Other Helpful Hints

• Keep in mind, your exam timer does not begin until after you complete proctoring pre-checks. So, even if you need a bit more time to get the technology sorted out, you’ll still have the full time allotted to complete your exam.
• You can also contact your instructor and let her/him know about your technical issues, so they are aware of any challenges during your proctored exam experience.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I LOSE WIFI OR MY COMPUTER CRASHES DURING A PROCTORED EXAM?

Based on your exam settings, you may or may not be permitted to re-enter a proctored exam after a computer crash or a lost WIFI connection. If you lose WIFI or run into technical issues that prevent you from returning to a proctored exam, make a good-faith effort to document this instance, and contact your instructor to describe your situation.

IF MY WEBCAM AND SCREEN ARE BEING RECORDED, WHERE IS THIS INFORMATION STORED AND WHO CAN SEE THOSE RECORDINGS?

Respondus has a detailed privacy policy posted on its website. 

I FIDGET WHEN I GET NERVOUS AND SOMETIMES I LIKE TO READ ALOUD TO MYSELF WHEN I TAKE EXAMS. WILL I BE PENALIZED OR WILL THE EXAM CLOSE FOR MOVING AROUND?

Respondus monitors the test environment for unusual patterns of behavior and may flag those for your instructor's review. There are some technical settings/requirements stated prior to starting your exam (E.g. do not exit full-screen; no downloads) that would cause the exam session to end; however, Respondus will not end your exam based on noise levels or movements in your test environment.

It's helpful to let your professor know in advance if you think this might be a concern. If you have a disability-related concern, Student Accessibility Services can assist you.

DO I HAVE TO TAKE A PROCTORED EXAM?

As previously stated, we value academic integrity, understanding the importance of fairness, and the need to provide students with the academic credentials they have earned. Additionally, faculty have the right to ensure the integrity of their exams. As such, faculty may choose to require proctoring for class assessments.

IF I HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT EXAM PROCTORING, WHO SHOULD I CONTACT?

As always, you may also contact your instructor with any questions or concerns related to course materials and assessments. For questions about the technologies involved in exam proctoring, review the Respondus Privacy Policy. If needed, you can reach out to the Office of the Student Ombuds, which provides students with confidential consultation in assisting with the possible resolution of any university-related concern, grievance, or appeal.