How to Rollout LockDown Browser
So you just purchased LockDown Browser for your institution. Now what? To have a successful rollout, put together a plan that supports the goals of your institution. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Distribution Policy
Think about how LockDown Browser will be distributed at your institution. Specifically, will the software be installed to only computers controlled by the institution, such as those in computer labs or testing centers? Or, will LockDown Browser be available to students for installation to their own computers?
A “Campus-wide License” allows unlimited installations of LockDown Browser, so this decision is entirely up to the institution. Most institutions put no limits on the distribution — that is, faculty and students can install it to any computer they want. The remaining institutions either limit the installations to only computers owned by the university, or have some other policy that partially limits the distribution. There is no right or wrong answer, but the distribution affects how the rollout will occur for administrators, instructors and students.
For administrators:
- Install the LockDown Browser server plugin for the learning management system (this is explained in the administrator guide).
- Enter details of the institution’s learning management system (such as the login URL) in the administrator area for LockDown Browser.
- Depending on the distribution policy (see above), install the client application for LockDown Browser to the desired computers. Or, provide the download link to instructors and students. For computers controlled by the institution, desktop management software can be used, or even a “silent install” (more details in the administrator guide.)
For instructors:
- Visit the LockDown Browser Instructor Resources page, where you will find demo movies, as well as a 2-page Instructor Quick Start Guide that explains the main features, such as how to set an exam so it will require students to use LockDown Browser.
- Prefer to see how it works, live? Check out our training schedule, and register for a session.
- Create a practice, non-graded exam that requires students to use LockDown Browser. This will familiarize students with the application and ensure everything is installed correctly.
For students:
- If students are installing LockDown Browser to their own computer, provide them the download URL. Note that this link is unique to each institution and will install either a Windows or Mac version automatically.
- Optionally, provide students the 1-page “Student Quick Start Guide” (select the version for your LMS from the Resources page) which contains instructions on installing and using LockDown Browser.
- Have students take a practice exam that requires LockDown Browser (this ensures they have the software installed properly and understand how to use it).
That’s pretty much it. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a successful launch of LockDown Browser at your institution.
