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Assessment FAQ

FAQ

We update this FAQ regularly. If your question is not listed, email tledwebsite@austincc.edu.

Get help

The Teaching and Learning Excellence Division (TLED) and the Office of Distance and Alternative Education (ODAE) provide support in course design, teaching technologies, and other high-impact practices that strengthen Austin Community College’s (ACC) Guided Pathways model. We offer a range of consultations for just-in-time assistance. Review options at Teaching Consultations and Support.

DE proctoring

What is DE proctoring?

ACC provides an online live proctoring platform for Chromebooks as well as Windows and Mac computers and laptops. Distance Education personnel monitor the student live through Class for Zoom while the student takes the exam.

How do I get started with setting up DE proctoring?

See the Testing Guide.

What optional materials can be specified in a DE-proctored test?

Zuleyka Izquierdo, Manager
Distance Education Testing
512-223-0461
deproctoring@austincc.edu

What instructions do students need to prepare for a DE proctoring session?

See the Testing Guide.

How do students set up a DE proctoring session?

See the Testing Guide.

What are the technical requirements for DE proctoring?

See the Testing Guide.

If I have questions about DE proctoring not listed here, who can I contact?

Zuleyka Izquierdo, Manager
Distance Education Testing
512-223-0461
deproctoring@austincc.edu

Respondus

What are Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor?

Respondus LockDown Browser is a specialized web browser that secures a student’s computer during an online exam in Blackboard. It prevents students from accessing other browsers or tabs; copying, pasting, or taking screen captures; using instant messaging; opening other applications; or visiting other websites (unless configured to allow specific external sites).

LockDown Browser can be used on its own or with Respondus Monitor for added security. Respondus Monitor uses the student’s webcam and microphone to record the testing session and deter use of secondary devices, outside materials, or assistance from others.

What’s the difference between LockDown Browser and Monitor?

LockDown Browser restricts the testing environment on the device. Monitor adds webcam and microphone recording during the exam.

How do I get started with Respondus?

Visit the Respondus tool page to get started.

What are the technical requirements for Respondus?

  • Windows: 10, 8, 7 (note: Windows 10 S is not compatible)
  • Mac: OS X 10.10 or higher
  • iOS: 10.0+ (iPad only)
  • Webcam (internal or external) and microphone (Respondus Monitor only)
  • Broadband internet connection

Are LockDown Browser and LockDown Browser with Monitor compatible with iPads?

Yes. See the Testing Guide.

Additional information: Can an iPad be used with LockDown Browser?

How do I create and format questions in Respondus?

Email facultysupport@austincc.edu for assistance.

I am a Mac user. How do I access the Respondus test bank software?

Mac users can access Respondus via the ACC Faculty Virtual Desktop. If you have not enabled the Faculty Virtual Desktop, you can do so there. Visit the Teaching and Learning Knowledge Base for setup instructions.

What do students need to know to use Respondus?

  • Students must download and install LockDown Browser on their system. iPad users need to download the LockDown Browser app from the Apple App Store. (ACC-issued iPads include LockDown Browser.)
  • Students must use LockDown Browser to open Blackboard and access the exam. Advise students not to start the test in another browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.), as the exam will not launch.

Where can students download LockDown Browser?

Direct students to the Respondus Help Pages for the download link and a quick start guide.

Looking for more information?

Student Accessibility Services

How are tests handled for students with accommodations approved by Student Accessibility Services?

Blackboard Ally is available in all Blackboard shells to support document accessibility. Ally does not change how course content works but provides “indicators” to show file accessibility. Instructors can click the indicator for feedback on issues, why they matter, and how to fix them.

Ally also generates alternative formats, such as HTML for phones, ePub for tablets, MP3 for audio, and electronic braille. These formats do not affect the original file and are available to students and instructors.

Testing with accommodations

Testing accommodations are administered by each campus testing center. Students should schedule appointments at least five business days in advance. Once scheduled, SASTest@austincc.edu will email you with exam location and instructions. Please respond promptly.

Instructor receives an email if accommodations include:

  • Magnifiers (CCTV, JAWS, ZoomText/Fusion, etc.)
  • Kurzweil/Text to Speech
  • Live reader/scribe
  • Enlarged font or alternative exam formats
  • Speech recognition software
  • Reduced-distraction testing
  • Other SAS-supported accommodations

Instructor submits test directly to the Testing Center if accommodations include:

  • Extended time
  • Breaks during exams
  • Drinks/snacks
  • Sunglasses or tinted glasses
  • Headphones (not connected)
  • Approved open book/notes
  • Medical devices (oxygen, insulin pump, etc.)
  • Computer for essay exams

Submit the test with the testing center transmittal form, marked “SAS Test Only,” and include the student’s approved accommodations.

More information: Student Accessibility Services

Questions and contacts

For testing questions: SASTest@austincc.edu

For accommodations: Dr. Lauren Sebel, Director of Student Accessibility Services, lsebel@austincc.edu

What if a student’s accommodations read: “Testing/Quizzes – Reader (Audio or Oral format)”?

JAWS, ZoomText, Fusion, and NVDA software work with the latest versions of Respondus. If students have trouble, contact SASTest@austincc.edu.

How can I make my Word documents and PowerPoints accessible?

Questions? Email AltText@austincc.edu, sloraas@austincc.edu, or megan.kareithi@austincc.edu.

Where can I learn more about Kurzweil as an accommodation?

  • On Blackboard: Students can use Kurzweil via the Read the Web extension without a password.
  • With Respondus LockDown Browser: Kurzweil is now compatible, though limitations remain. SAS Testing may provide further support.
  • PDF documents: Students can open and use them in Kurzweil 3000.