Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor Accessibility Information
LockDown Browser is a custom browser students use to access quizzes in Canvas. The browsers blocks students from using any impermissible services or applications on their device while taking a Canvas quiz. Monitor adds an additional webcam component and records students, flagging any behavior for instructor review.
Affected Users
LockDown Browser and Monitor work with many assistive technologies. For more information on screen reader, keyboard, text-to-speech, speech-to-text, math accessibility, and equations, review the Respondus Accessibility Knowledge Base Article Links to an external site..
Students that use VoiceOver will need to take additional actions to respond to essay questions. Students using screen readers offer than VoiceOver on Macs will also encounter certain barriers depending on the software.
Students using keyboard support will need to know additional actions and shortcuts.
There are several known accessibility issues with Canvas (Classic Quizzes and New Quizzes). More information is available in the Accessibility section of the Canvas Learning Center.
Known Accessibility Barriers
For screenreader users on Macs, VoiceOver is the most recommend software. VoiceOver works with Respondus, but there are certain keyboard actions required to respond to Essay questions. Text-to-speech, Kurzweil Read The Web, and Speech all work with Respondus Lockdown Browser, but with know accessibility barriers which are listed on this Respondus support page Links to an external site..
- There is a known issue with Kurzweil Read The Web reading answer responses.
- Speech (MacOS 10.15 or older) does not read multiple choice or true/false answer choices correctly.
- For students using keyboard support, Respondus has its own custom keyboard actions and shortcuts.
- Speech-to-text works with Respondus Lockdown Browser but with the following limitations and barriers:
- Windows Speech Recognition works best with a headset and microphone.
- ChromeOS Dictation: The Speak microphone icon cannot be accessed via the ChromeOS taskbar during a secured exam. Students must use Search + d to activate the microphone for inserting text.
Alternate Access
- Alternate access is not required for students using VoiceOver. These instructions Links to an external site. provide the necessary steps to respond to Essay questions.
- For students using keyboard support, provide this resource on keyboard shortcuts Links to an external site..
- For students using Kurzweil Read The Web extension, they will not be able to use this technology to read their answers. Instructors should ensure Lockdown Browser is not required to view responses so the student can use Kurzweil or another screen reader in Canvas via a regular browser.
- Students depending on Speech on older Macs should be provided an alternative text-to-speech or read aloud software. VoiceOver is recommended.
- Students using Windows Speech Recognition will need a headset and microphone.
Additional Support
If these workarounds are not sufficient to provide access for a specific individual, accommodations may be necessary. To address accommodation needs:
• For student(s), contact AccessibleNU at accessiblenu@northwestern.edu
• For faculty, staff, or the general public, contact the Office of Equity at accommodations@northwestern.edu