This message is ONLY for St George's registered students.
Dear students,
Before the festive break, we let you know that we were implementing LockDown Browser ahead of assessments taking place in the coming weeks. We can now provide you with further information on how you can familiarise yourself with LockDown Browser prior to any assessments you may have.
From 25 January 2020, tightly-timed online exams will be delivered through Canvas Quiz. To facilitate the testing environment, you will be required to use LockDown Browser - a custom internet browser that prevents students from accessing anything else on their computer or laptop while undertaking the quiz.
The LockDown Browser does not require access to your webcam or microphone. It simply provides an opportunity for a focused exam whilst restricting opportunities for distraction or cheating.
Accessing LockDown Browser
A new preparatory module has been developed on Canvas to allow you to try the LockDown Browser environment before your exam. The module is called Online Exams at St George's, University of London and can be accessed here.
Please self-enrol onto the module as soon as possible to engage with the content. The module will provide you with the necessary information and support to prepare for your exams. It includes frequently asked questions, key contacts and how to prevent and resolve internet connectivity issues. It also provides the download link for St George’s version of LockDown Browser and an opportunity for you to take a short practice quiz using the browser.
Once you have completed the exams preparation module in Canvas, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and/or provide feedback, particularly around functionality and any issues that you have encountered, in the discussion forum within the module. You can post your questions and feedback up until 15 January 2021. We will respond to feedback provided as quickly as possible. .
Requirements for online exams
You are expected to have access to a laptop, a consistent internet connection and a quiet space, in order to undertake exams that are designated as online and remote in this academic year. To maintain an inclusive and equitable approach that recognises, for example, challenging domestic circumstances and poor home internet connections, students can apply to take their exam on-campus using a networked computer or laptop with WIFI connectivity.
You can do this by contacting examonsite@sgul.ac.uk ideally four weeks before your exam if you think you will have difficulties meeting any of these expectations (access to a laptop, a consistent internet connection and a quiet space) and require assistance.
It is very important that you complete the preparatory module to ensure LockDown browser works on your device. You may not be able to undertake these exams on a Chromebook or Tablet. Therefore, if you do not have a laptop to use, please ensure that you let us know by emailing examonsite@sgul.ac.uk.
For more information about the support available to you, please visit the Guidance for Students page, under the heading of Studying, campus, facilities and fees.
Students who also undertake exams on the Medical Skills Council Assessment Alliance (MSCAA) platform will receive further information relating to this from the Exams team in due course.
Dr Baba Sheba
Head of Centre for Technology in Education