UMass Boston

Faculty at UMass Boston have a number of options for administering timed exams on campus. Listed below are the options available along with the associated resources.

Blackboard Tests

The Tests tool available within Blackboard provides a variety of question types and useful options for administering timed tests. Review these Best Practices for Tests for some tips on making the most of these options.

Respondus 4.0

Respondus 4.0 is a software application available for Windows use that facilitates the creation of test questions for uploading to Blackboard. Review Respondus 4.0 resources and request a license.

Gradescope

Gradescope is a new tool available to faculty that facilitates the administration of paper-based exams through AI-powered digital grading. It is an advanced substitute for “bubble-sheets” that provides additional convenient ways of accepting student work through its Blackboard integration. Visit Gradescope resources.

Secure Exam and Proctoring Options

Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor

When a more controlled testing environment is required, the university provides access to the Respondus LockDown Browser -- a custom browser that restricts access to outside resources while a student takes an exam deployed through the Tests tool in Blackboard. Respondus Monitor is an optional add-on that builds on the power of Respondus LockDown Browser by using a student’s webcam to record them while taking the exam. Review resources on Respondus LDBM.

Tip: Be sure to set up a practice exam for students to get accustomed to the browser and work out any technical issues before the actual exam. 

Mobile Carts

Mobile carts with laptop computers are available upon request to be used by students in your classroom. Be sure to reserve a cart a week in advance of your scheduled test through the Bookit system.

System Requirements

For a trouble-free testing experience, please remind your students to be sure their devices meet the system requirements for the tools you are using. Chrome and Firefox in their latest versions are the recommended browsers to be used with Blackboard and related tools.

Help for Faculty

For help with planning a test and/or integrating any of the available options and best practices, get in touch with the Learning Design Services: umb.edu/learningdesign

Help for Students

Students should be directed to the 24/7 Technical Support line if they experience trouble while taking an exam. If using specialized tools such as Respondus LDBM and Gradescope, refer to the respective resource pages for additional support available.