By Ernest Andugo

USIU-Africa Online conducted training sessions in Week 6 to orient students on the University’s requirements for taking online exams. The trainings, held via Zoom were conducted from June 17-19 and were facilitated by the Head of USIU- Africa Online, Phillip Machoka. Over 500 students were taken through navigating the Learning Management System, Blackboard, the type of questions to expect in the exams and most importantly, the use of Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor.

Respondus LockDown Browser is a locked browser for taking tests in an online testing environment. It prevents users from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during a test. If a Blackboard test requires that LockDown Browser be used, users will not be able to take the test with a standard web browser. Students may be required to use Respondus LockDown Browser with a webcam (sometimes referred to as ‘Respondus Monitor’.) which will record users during an online, non-proctored exam.

During the training session, students had an opportunity to ask questions directly or via chat. These queries were responded to in real-time by support officers in the background throughout the training. Helpdesk contacts were shared and support during the entire exam period was guaranteed. Students had an option to make a phone call or email or WhatsApp during non-office hours.

The mid semester exams were successfully taken in week 7 and all issue raised were treated on an isolated basis and resolved, where technically possible.