Dear Trish,

We have used Respondus LockDown Browser (RLB - http://bit.ly/N2hWqz) to carry out computer-based summative assessments here at Kingston University. RLB is a web browser like IE and Chrome and works in the following way:

	1. Accessing RLB prompts you to close any existing applications running on the computer
	2. Following the above, RLB takes the students to the institutional VLE log-in screen
	3. Users log-in the VLE and access the assessment
	4. The screen is ‘locked’ during the duration of the assessment. This means that users cannot
		a. access other applications (including web browser) 
		b. access network or local drives
		c. take screenshot of assessment using 'print screen' keyboard key
		d. print the assessment
	5. Users finish and submit assessment
	6. RLB can be closed in order to access other features of the computer

One big advantage of using RLB for e-assessments is that it disables all mouse buttons/wheels except the 'left click' button. We have carried out some e-assessments without RLB where users had to re-start the assessment because they accidently clicked on the mouse next/previous buttons taking them back one screen.

After trial and error, we have achieved a reasonable level of stability and reliability in conducting e-assessments using the RLB. I must stress here that besides the choice of assessment software, support from the IT/Computer lab staff is absolutely vital for successful running of e-assessments. IT staff can help ensure that computers in the lab are fit for use (mouse, keyboard, monitors etc. working) and their presence during the initial 15 minutes of the assessment can address issues arising from computer/network failures.

The following books may be useful resources (also include guidance for devising objective-type questions that test higher-order skills): 

McKenna, C. and Bull, J. (2004) Blueprint for Computer-assisted Assessment. 1st ed. London, RoutledgeFalmer

Pritchett, N. (1999) Effective Question Design. In Brown, S. Race, P. And Bull, J. (eds.) Computer-Assisted Assessment in Higher Education. London, Kogan Page, pp.29-37

Hope this helps.

Note: RLB can only be used if the online assessment is created in Respondus 4.0 (http://bit.ly/RjfI7Y) – a software to create and manage e-assessment which can subsequently be exported to the VLE.

Best regards,

Salman

_________________________________

Salman Usman
Academic E-learning Developer
Room Pr-Fc107
Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing
Kingston University London
Penrhyn Road
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey KT1 2EE


-----Original Message-----
From: Blackboard/Courseinfo userslist [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Trish Murray
Sent: 16 August 2012 11:35
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Lock down of machines for Bb summative exams?

What are peoples experience within their institutions of running summative exams through Blackboard? Are you able to set up the machines so that general internet browsing is blocked? Is it possible to lock Bb down so students only have access to a quiz and not other parts of the course or any other courses?
Im really fielding to see how others run Bb exams?
Thanks in advance, Trish 

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