Respondus LockDown Browser: Disable Trackpad Swipe Gestures Before an Exam
If you use a laptop trackpad while taking an exam in Respondus LockDown Browser, certain multi-finger swipe gestures may cause your computer to attempt to switch applications, windows, or desktops. LockDown Browser is designed to prevent access to other applications during an exam. To help prevent accidental interruptions, review or turn off multi-finger trackpad gestures before launching your exam.
Students will receive a warning message when the LockDown Browser detects a swipe gesture on a laptop's touchpad or a specific type of external mouse. If this behavior continues, the LockDown Browser will remove the student from the exam. By monitoring for swipe gestures, Respondus aims to discourage students from attempting to access unauthorized materials during an exam by switching to other applications on their devices.
Current RLDB Swipe or Track Pad Gesture Lock Out
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If the LockDown Browser detects a swipe, it will provide a warning, allowing the student a brief moment, not more than a couple of seconds, to refocus on their exam without accessing background apps.
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If a second swipe occurs, the LockDown Browser will end the session and display a notice to the student. This notice will also appear quickly. Upon reopening LockDown Browser, a swipe-away alert will be sent to the Dashboard to keep the instructor informed.
This process is intended to create a fair and secure testing environment, enabling students to focus entirely on their assessments while ensuring transparency with their instructors. If a student is removed from a Canvas quiz, they can re-enter and complete it as long as time remains. We recommend using an external mouse or disabling trackpad gestures when taking a test in Canvas on a device with a trackpad.
Before Starting Your Exam
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Review your trackpad gesture settings before opening LockDown Browser.
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Consider using a standard mouse if you are concerned about accidentally triggering a gesture.
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Close unnecessary applications before beginning your exam.
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Make sure LockDown Browser is up to date.
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Avoid using application-switching gestures or keyboard shortcuts during the exam.
Windows 11
Windows touchpads can use three- and four-finger gestures to switch between open applications, display the desktop, or switch virtual desktops.
To review these settings:
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Open Start > Settings.
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Select Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad.
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Expand Three-finger gestures and Four-finger gestures.
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Review or change gesture actions that switch applications, windows, or desktops.
Available settings may vary depending on your laptop and touchpad hardware. Microsoft notes that some gestures are available only on precision touchpads.
Microsoft: Touch gestures for Windows
macOS
Before your exam, review the trackpad gesture settings on your Mac and temporarily turn off gestures that switch between pages, applications, or desktops.
macOS: Multi-touch Gestures
If LockDown Browser Exits Your Exam
If an accidental gesture causes LockDown Browser to close or remove you from your exam:
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Do not repeatedly attempt to bypass the LockDown Browser restriction.
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Reopen LockDown Browser if your exam still allows access.
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If you cannot return to the exam, contact your instructor and ASU support for assistance.
Resources
How to Install and Troubleshoot Respondus LockDown Browser
LockDown Browser + Respondus Monitor
Respondus Support
Need additional help? Access 24/7 live chat, or create a case from your My ASU Service Center, or call 855-278-5080.
