As AI continues to make unauthorized assistance during exams easier, many educators are exploring new approaches to testing. This guide examines two options, Respondus LockDown Browser & Monitor and Remark (Paper) Test Scoring, with a focus on their benefits, limitations, and appropriate use cases to support academic integrity during traditional tests and exams. Explore how each option balances student experience, accessibility, technology requirements, and grading efficiency. Participants will leave better prepared to choose an assessment strategy that fits their course format and instructional goals.
Purpose
The focus is on prevention, not detection.
Re-Evaluating Testing
Generative AI and other technologies have changed how instructors think about testing and assessment.
Security is only one factor. Student experience, accessibility, technology requirements, logistics, and grading efficiency are also important considerations.
The objective is not to identify a single "best" solution, but to understand which approach is the best fit for a particular course or individual assessment.
Option 1: Respondus LockDown Browser & Monitor
LockDown Browser restricts access to websites, applications, browser tabs, and other resources during an exam.
Respondus Monitor can also add webcam, audio, screen recording, and even a second camera with flagged review points for instructors.
Works for both online and in-person exams when students use laptops or other devices to complete Canvas quizzes.
Benefits
- Uses existing Canvas quizzes and question banks.
- Reduces access to AI tools, websites, messaging platforms, and unauthorized resources during testing.
- Supports both remote and face-to-face testing environments.
- Enables automatic grading for many question types.
- Familiar workflow for instructors already using Canvas quizzes.
- The Help Desk staff is experienced in helping students install the software.
Considerations
- Use a practice exam so students install and successfully use the software before the exam.
- Technology issues can create stress and require troubleshooting.
- Additional equipment may be needed when Monitor is enabled.
- Accessibility and accommodation planning may be necessary.
- Faculty may need to review flagged recordings after exams.
Best Fit
- Online, Hybrid, and Face-to-face courses using Canvas quizzes.
- Exams benefit from automatic grading and immediate feedback.
Resource
Respondus LockDown Browser & Monitor
Option 2: Remark Test Scoring
Uses paper bubble-sheet exams, which can be scanned and scored automatically.
Instructors control when to send Remark scores to synchronize with Canvas
Provides an alternative testing environment that removes the need for internet-connected devices during an exam.
Benefits
- Eliminates access to AI tools, websites, and other online resources during the test.
- Requires little technology from students.
- Familiar testing format for many students and instructors.
- Supports efficient grading even in large enrollment courses.
- Exams can be shared with other instructors (e.g., common exams).
- Integrates with Canvas while maintaining a paper-based testing experience.
Considerations
- Requires printing, distributing, collecting, and scanning exams.
- Less flexible for remote students.
- Primarily designed for objective-style questions.
- Exam logistics require more physical preparation than online testing.
Best Fit
- Face-to-face courses.
- Large lecture classes.
- Common exams.
- Situations where instructors prefer students not to use devices during testing.
Resource
Compare the Options
Rather than asking, "Which tool prevents cheating better?" consider the broader instructional questions:
- Do students need to complete the assessment remotely or in person?
- Is automatic grading an important consideration?
- How much technology should students be required to use?
- What accessibility or accommodation needs must be supported?
- How much preparation time is reasonable for the instructor?
- Which testing environment best aligns with the course learning goals?