College FAQs

Proctored exams are timed exams that a student takes while a proctoring software monitors a student's computer's desktop webcam and audio. Exam proctoring will allow students to sit their examinations in their homes by downloading and using an online tool called LockDown Browser.

What is the Respondus LockDown Browser? View the PDF.

• Respondus is a HECVAT (Higher Education Community Vendor Assessment Tool) participant, which is an EDUCAUSE initiative where vendors provide detailed information on security and data protection as it relates to cloud services and software applications.
• Respondus’ HECVAT is available upon request by filling out this form.

When the COVID-19 situation started to evolve in Australia, we began immediate investigations into online proctoring software (which included a browser lockdown feature) when it became apparent that the campuses were required to close in March 2020.

When it was confirmed we would not be returning to campus until July 2020, we decided to move forward with this online solution to ensure the continued safety of yourselves and staff in this uncertain environment while also supporting you in your course progression in 2020.

Respondus develops assessment applications for the education training and certification markets. Each year over 100 million assessments are created delivered proctored or analysed using Respondus technology. Respondus is an education company at its core, with a deep understanding of online testing. For 20 years Respondus has partnered with universities and other education companies to develop world class educational technologies end proctoring software. For more information about them, visit their website.

No, we are in respectable company. Respondus is currently being used by Monash University, James Cook University, University of Tasmania and University of Adelaide and has been for some time. On top of this, Respondus develops assessment applications for the education training and certification markets and each year over 100 million assessments are created delivered proctored or analysed using Respondus technology across Australia and the USA.

We are also aware of the media attention in recent weeks around universities using various software solutions for exams. However, we have done our research into these reports and found that the Respondus software was not part of those media concerns and, in fact, every concern raised by the media is alleviated by the Respondus software.

We absolutely understand that you may be concerned about your privacy when introducing new software onto your personal devices; as you should be. We are proud that we have students who take these matters as seriously as we do.

Rest assured we have carefully reviewed the Respondus privacy policy and terms and find them to align with the requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles, as required by Principle 8 (cross-border disclosure of personal information). In particular, Respondus’ alignment with Principle 3 (collection of solicited personal information) and Principle 11 (security of personal information) were key to the College entering into a licensing agreement with them. Respondus’ privacy policy also ensures that no information shared with them will be passed on to any party other than Endeavour, the licensee of the software.

Yes. The Respondus privacy policy and terms align as required with:

• Principle 3 (collection of solicited personal information)
• Principle 8 (cross-border disclosure of personal information)
• Principle 11 (security of personal information) were key to the College entering into a licensing agreement with them
• Respondus’ privacy policy also ensures that no information shared with them will be passed on to any party other than Endeavour, the licensee of the software

No, you’re not expected to keep this software on your computer and you are welcome to uninstall and delete it as soon as your exam has been completed. This software is only required for you to complete your exams and you can install it and uninstall it as many times as you need for different exams. Uninstalling this program from your computer is easy, and instructions are available via the LMS > Learning Resources > Online Exam Training Module 2020>Endeavour Student Manual > Uninstalling Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor.

Respondus holds all electronic data collected by its software in a secure cloud-based environment which is regularly security checked using ‘third party penetration testing’.

Under Australian record retention requirements, the College is required to hold your actual examinations for 6 – 12 months. Because of this requirement, the Endeavour College policy states that we will hold completed examination papers for 12 months, after which time they are destroyed securely. Respondus’ current policy meets the US requirements to hold examination answers for up to five years. As part of our licensing agreement with Respondus, we have requested this holding time to be reduced to 12 months to align with our policy.

Respondus records and saves video of the student sitting the examination for monitoring purposes – this is considered the ‘completed exam paper’ for the College record retention purposes. It highlights still images which are accessible by the relevant academic staff member only (marker), where it has marked a possible concern around academic integrity (e.g. that you may be looking at a book). The staff member can click on these images (which are part of the video) and it will play video from that point onwards to track integrity issues. These recordings are held at Respondus servers and kept for one year as part of our request in alignment with our record retention requirements.

We are aware that some of you would prefer to come to campus to sit your examinations. While we wish we were able to accommodate you, due to the scheduling changes because of COVID-19, this is not going to be possible for this semester. The College is planning to conduct all ‘backlog’ exams for online cohorts which have already completed coursework in the first week of June, and for the March and Semester 1 cohorts in mid – late June, so that all exams are completed prior to the start of the on-campus practical and clinic blocks.

Due to the requirement for national consistency and integrity of exams, we must have a national approach to ensure students on all campuses have equality of experience, and given states are relaxing restrictions at different times, the introduction of such software is the only way we can assure this equality.

We understand that some of you are concerned around finding some privacy within your home to conduct the examination within the required timeframes. Unfortunately, this is something that we cannot get around – we must lock down a specific timeframe for exams in order to protect the academic integrity of the exams themselves. This would also be the case if the exams were held on campus.

However, given the exam timetable will be released with at least four to six weeks’ notice, we hope you will be able to arrange for this block of time to be set aside for yourself, as you would if you were required to attend campus. Based on your circumstances it may be a consideration to apply for a Special Consideration. You can locate the relevant form in your Student Portal under the 'Special Consideration and Academic Appeals' tile or via the 'Forms' tile. Follow the prompts on the form to submit your request.

We understand that there will be circumstances where you may not be able to sit an examination or use a shared computer at home. If this is the case, you can:

• • Lodge a Special Consideration Application via the Student Portal under the ‘Special Consideration and Academic Appeal’ tile. Outline your circumstances and upload supporting documents.
  • Lodge a Deferred Examination Application via the Student Portal under the ‘Special Consideration and Academic Appeal’ tile.
  • Raise a Nomination of External Invigilation Form, the 100k radius has been waived. The application is via the website Policies & procedures > Forms.

A LockDown Browser is a locked browser for taking online exams in Moodle. It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during an exam. If a Moodle online exam requires that LockDown Browser be used, you will not be able to take the exam with a standard web browser. To take the exam, you are required to use LockDown Browser with a webcam, which will record you during an online, non-proctored exam. We recommend where possible to position yourself with a blank wall or neutral environment behind you.

Find out more here.

This tool allows identification prior to commencement of the exam: monitoring of a student's physical surrounding as well as shut down of all online communications, platforms and software for the duration of the final exam. This online tool will monitor a student's behaviour during the exam. This means that any cheating that is detected during the exam will be considered under the Academic Integrity Policy. This will maintain the academic integrity in the online examination space.

Students will download the LockDown Browser on their computer, and will activate it once they open the LMS (where the exam is housed). The activation of the browser will shut down all online activities on the computer and initiate the online identification and monitoring phase. Once this is completed, the student will be able to open the exam while the LockDown Browser monitors their behaviour using web camera for the duration of the exam.

Once the exam is over, the student clicks 'submit', and the LockDown Browser then compiles the information on the behaviour of the student during the exam, and marks it as LOW to HIGH risk of breaching academic integrity. Each marker will review this report prior to marking the exam and report any suspicious behaviour to the Head of Department for investigation. If the exam is reported for breaching the academic integrity it will not be marked until the investigation is completed.

Yes, we have developed the online exam training module 2020 which is located in the LMS > Learning Resources > Online Exam Training Module 2020 section. These tools and resources include user guides, recorded step-by-step guidelines on how to install the browser and how to use it with a practice exam. The completion of this training package will earn the user a badge (similar to the one you receive upon completion of the academic integrity module). Once this page is received you will be able to access the final exams. LMS Modules include:

• Respondus Lockdown Browser and Respondus Monitor Information
• Respondus Lockdown Browser for Students Introduction Video
• Respondus Lockdown Browser Endeavour Student Manual
• Respondus Lockdown Browser Endeavour video
• Practice Final Exam - requires Respondus Lockdown Browser

You can lodge a Deferred Examination Application via the Student Portal under the ‘Special Consideration and Academic Appeal’ tile.

• An operational computer/laptop
• A web camera (either integrated into the laptop or a detachable one; provided by the student)
• A clean space surrounding your computer/laptop
• A quiet space to complete your exam

The results release schedule remains the same for all examinations. Please refer to the semester-based student calendar and the online study calendar. Refer to the college website > Current Students > Re-enrolments > Timetables and Calendars Section

If you do not have your student ID, you can present a current drivers license. The ID presented must be a photo ID. Once on-campus classes resume, we recommend that you contact the library or the virtual librarian to source a student ID. Your student ID is required for all examinations, and acts as a confirmation that you are a current student at the College.

Yes. Reading time is still applied to exam proctoring. The total time will be 10 minutes, plus the total exam time.

Yes. There is a countdown clock in the top left-hand corner.

Please refer to the online exam training module 2020, which is located in the LMS > Learning Resources > Online Exam Training Module 2020 under section 4, ‘toilet breaks’.

The software will detect movement or unusual activity, and this may flag as high risk. An invigilator will review the recordings and ascertain that this is a health-related consideration, and therefore not an academic integrity issue. The examination will then be marked.

Health related circumstances may include the use of an inhaler or medication. It is recommended that the student is registered for the Access & Equity Program, to support the reasonable adjustments and to inform the Examinations Department prior to the exam so this is already on record and can be taken into consideration.

The exam is housed in our LMS, and it will read 'attempt submitted'. This is the same as the current process with the online quiz submission for current assessments and subjects.

No. A separate email will not be sent. The exam is hosted in the LMS, and this will be submitted as any other online quiz.

No, these examinations must be taken on a computer. The student may raise a Special Consideration Application for consideration, with supporting documentation, if they do not have access to a computer, via the Student Portal in the ‘Special Consideration and Academic Appeal’ tile.

The Inherent Course Requirements outline the requirements for a student to have a computer, in order to be successful in completing their studies.

When a student commences study with the College, the Inherent Course Requirements is signed by the student upon enrolment. The digital and information technology literacy section outlines the requirement to utilise software and electronic hardware, and the completion of activities related to studying e.g. owning a personal computer.

The student may lodge a Special Consideration Application via the Student Portal under the ‘Special Consideration and Academic Appeal’ tile.

You can select a neutral space at home during the exam, and can also have the webcam face a blank wall.

The recording lasts only for the duration of the exam.

As a student, you will be required to purchase a webcam. There are a range of webcams on the market in a variety of price ranges (from $20 upwards), which can be purchased through different online marketplaces.

A student may raise a Special Consideration Application, with supporting documentation, via the student portal. The College will work with the students on a case by case basis.

No. A camera is compulsory for online proctoring. The College will work with students on a case by case basis, should special considerations be required. A student may raise a Special Consideration Application for consideration, along with supporting documentation, if they are unable to use a camera, via the Student Portal.

There is already an established process in place, should the internet drop out in the middle of the examination. This process is implemented as part of the online quizzes.

A student is to take a screenshot of what they are seeing at the time of internet failure, and raise a Special Consideration Application via the student portal, with the attached evidence as documentation. The College will assess the Special Consideration Application and support students in completing the examination.

If you encounter technical problems, you can contact the LMS team by submitting a ticket via the help link on the LMS or via the Student Portal under Systems and Support / Student Assistance.

The software will be able to detect this movement, and as this is reviewed by the exam invigilator, it will be clear that a child or family member in the frame. Each marker will review this report prior to marking of the exam, and report any suspicious behaviour to the Head of Department for investigation. It is likely that this will only be for a short period of time, so it will not constitute cheating.

A student that is registered for ESL is able to send a picture of the dictionary to the Examination Department for approval. At the time of examination, ensure that that dictionary is part of the environment scan prior to attempting the exam.

Yes. The extra time will already be included in the examination time, and you will be allocated the extra exam time as outlined on the RAP (Reasonable Adjustment Program).

Yes. An Access and Equity Officer and the Examinations Department will work with you on a case by case basis to support this.

No. All examinations will be conducted via the exam proctoring software. If a student is unable to complete the exam online using the proctoring system at home, the student may submit an ‘Application for Special Consideration’ via the Student Portal or consider the nomination for external invigilation. The 'Request to change exam centre' form can be located on the Student Portal under the 'Forms' tile.

Yes, students that are eligible are able to complete the Nomination of External Exam Invigilation Form – HE available on the website and lodge a request for external invigilation. Refer to the FAQ on this form for exam supervision and application processes. The eligibility requirement of 100k’s have been waived for 2020. This form can be submitted to examination@endeavour.edu.au

Students can access the examination via the LMS > Subject > Assessment tab. Students must access the download link through the College LMS, NOT by searching for the software online and then clicking on a link. For all tools and resources go to the LMS > Learning Resources > Online Exam Training Module 2020 section.

The College is currently updating the examination policy, which will outline circumstances for Special Consideration Applications.

The College benchmarks new initiatives to Higher Education providers across Australia. The implementation of exam proctoring has followed the benchmarking process. The software is currently used in Australia, and was benchmarked to successful case studies across the Higher Education providers including Monash University, James Cook University and The University of Adelaide.

• Respondus has achieved SOC 2 Type 1 certification, which is formal evidence that its systems and processes are properly designed to keep its clients’ sensitive data secure. The most recent certification occurred in December 2019.
• Respondus is a HECVAT participant, which is an EDUCAUSE initiative where vendors provide detailed information on security and data protection as it relates to cloud services and software applications. Respondus’ HECVAT is available upon request by filling out this form.
• Over 600 universities have implemented Respondus Monitor (over 1,500 for LockDown Browser). The architecture and security has been closely vetted by hundreds of institutions, including some of the largest online learning programs in the world. For example, in Australia, the following institutions have been using Respondus Lockdown Browser even prior to the COVID-19: Monash University, James Cook University, University of Tasmania and University of Adelaide.

Respondus takes data privacy seriously. Additional information is available via the Respondus Privacy Center, and FAQ PDF.

You can use the calculator provided by the Respondus browser, which has been made available for every exam, or you can also use a simple calculator. A simple calculator refers to a standard basic calculator which can be purchased at a newsagent, stationary store, Officeworks etc. If you choose to use a simple calculator, you will need to show it to the camera during the environment check.

• Ed-tech support hotline: Operational during normal business hours and can be reached on 1300 051 429.
• Submit a ticket: via the help desk, then select the ‘LMS Assistance > Online exams’ category.

The exam times are released as they always are, via the LMS in the Subject News/The Loop > connections tab.

While this is possible it is not recommended as the internet connection may time out and it would not be possible to pick up the examination at the point where you lost the internet connection. If you have limited internet connection, you may consider the External Invigilation option. Some students have also been given the recommendation to book a meeting room at the local library, as this allows the use of a Wi-Fi connection and a private meeting room area to complete the examination. Refer to your local library for details of their meeting room terms and conditions and opening hours.

Often this will occur based on your computer and security settings setup. In this case please raise a ticket through the Student Portal by clicking the 'Systems and Support' tab and selecting 'Student Assistance'.

Yes. All live streaming classes are recorded, and you will be able to listen to these at a convenient time across the semester. These recordings will be uploaded within 24 to 36 hours of the class being completed and are available in the subject of the week that the lesson was held.

No Endeavour College students or staff have been diagnosed with coronavirus.

Contact Student Services by phoning 1300 462 887 (ext 2) or via email at student.services@endeavour.edu.au to explain your specific circumstances. We are doing what we can to minimise any disruption to your studies and will work with individual students should they be impacted.

The health and wellbeing of our students and staff are a priority. Our measures are consistent with Federal and State Health Departments’ advice and we are consistently reviewing these measures. We are promoting healthy personal hygiene habits across our campuses which includes the availability of hand sanitiser around campuses as well as more stringent classroom/clinics/on campus facility sterilisation and cleaning protocols.

We will review this on a case by case basis. In some cases subjects may be able to be taken online or a webinar may be set up in order for you to continue your studies. We can support you with attendance requirements or schedule in make up work shops, depending on the situation.

It is normal to experience some worry or concern about this issue, however if it begins to affect your mental health or physical wellbeing it is recommended you seek support from a health professional.

Endeavour College offers a free and confidential counselling and support service for students. The College Student Assistance Program (SAP) is available 24/7 through Access EAP. Call 1800 336 207 or accesseap.com.au. The SAP counsellors are fully trained and will be able the support that you need at this time.

To self-assess your own risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) please refer to this guide (PDF).

The College is closely monitoring the situation and following all the relevant advice from the Department of Health, Department of Education and Government agencies. As new information becomes available updates will be provided on this page.

• If you have been in close contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus, you must isolate yourself for 14 days after last contact with the confirmed case.
• If you have been in close contact with someone who has, and are presenting symptoms including fever, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, headache, and shortness of breath, you need to contact your usual doctor. You cannot attend College until Public Health informs you that it is safe for you to do so.
• Students and Staff in these circumstances should not attend the college and must avoid contact with other students and staff
• If you are currently in classes and are excluded from the College due to presenting symptoms of the virus then please contact the student services team in the first instance.

For further detailed and updated information, refer to the links below and a list of state and territory public health hotlines.

• Call the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080
• Call the Health Direct Hotline to speak to a registered nurse about your health concerns on 1800 022 222
• Information for Higher Education and Vocational Education students and staff arriving from Hubei Province, China
• Information for Higher Education and Vocational Education students and staff travelling to Australia from China
• Download information for Higher Education and Vocational Education students and staff arriving from Hubei Province, China (in English and simplified Chinese)here
• Department of Home Affairs website and resources for International students
• Department of Health website and resources
• Department of Health Isolation guidelines
• Department of Education website and resources
• ACT call 02 5124 9213
• NSW call 1300 066 055
• NT call 08 8922 8044
• QLD call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
• SA call 1300 232 272
• TAS call 1800 671 738
• VIC call 1300 651 160
• WA visit HealthyWA or call your local public health unit