Academic Technology Launchpad: Quizzes

There are two ways to access quizzes or tests in Brightspace - from a link within the content your course or from the Quizzes tool in the Course Activities menu. Note: Linked quizzes may take you out of Brightspace to a separate test site.

Linked within Course Content:

From the Quizzes tool under Course Activities:

Many tests and quizzes allow only 1 attempt, so you will want to avoid any problems. Read and follow any instructions from your instructor and these general suggestions carefully.

Before you start a test or quiz:

• Restart your computer completely - to make sure you have a fresh connection to Brightspace. 
• Make sure you have a reliable internet connection.
  • If you are on campus using a laptop, use MC-Secure wireless.
  • If you are off campus, be sure your internet connection is stable and reliable.
• Check your computer settings and browser for Brightspace compatibility. Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are recommended. 
• Allow pop-ups. 
• Some tests and quizzes may not be mobile-friendly, so you should take a test using a laptop or desktop computer whenever possible. Use a Brightspace-compatible computer and browser.
• Check for and remove any spyware or malware on your computer. Spyware or malware can interfere with online tests, as well as cause other problems.
• If you are going to start a timed test or a test that expires at a particular time, be aware of that limit and plan accordingly. Don't wait until the last minute to start a test or quiz.

During the test or quiz:

• Do not multi-task. Don't take a break in the middle of a test or quiz, plan to complete it in one sitting. Close other programs or browsers on your computer before beginning a test or quiz.
• Do not minimize, maximize or resize your browser window, or open another browser window during the test or quiz. You may get locked out.
• Do not refresh or reload your browser during a quiz or test. You may get locked out.
• Do not use the browser navigation links or icons at the top of your browser such as back or forward. Use the Brightspace navigation only so you don't get kicked out of the test.

As you finish up:

• Before clicking Submit Quiz to finish an exam, you may check the question completion status indicator at the top of the page to make sure all questions were answered.
• Remember to click on the final Submit Quiz button on the quiz submission confirmation page. 
• Review your quiz results for any questions that are auto-graded. Click the Done button.

After the test or quiz:

• You'll receive an email confirmation after submitting your quiz.
• Check the Grades in your course navbar to see final results of your test/quiz after it's graded.
• You can also review previous quiz attempts (if multiple attempts are allowed) by clicking on Quizzes from the Course Activities menu in the course navbar.

What if I get an error message or get interrupted while taking a quiz or test?

• If a technical error or interruption occurs while you're taking a quiz and you need to start over, contact your instructor for the course. Explain the situation and, if appropriate, they will be able to reset the test for you. They might also grant you more attempts. The Student Help Desk cannot reset quizzes and tests for students.
• Before taking the test or quiz again use the System Check to be sure your computer is compatible with Brightspace. Review the suggestions for taking tests and quizzes in Brightspace.

Some courses use Respondus LockDown Browser to proctor exams in Brightspace. Your instructor will let you know if you should use this and how it works. 

Respondus LockDown Browser is a locked browser that prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during a test. 

Campus computers and virtual desktops have Resondus LockDown Browser already installed. You may also be able to install it on your personal computer. If so, the link to install will be provided on the test page within Brightspace.

Once LockDown Browser is installed, you'll need to go back to the exam page within Brighspace and click on the "Launch LockDown Browser" button.

Check your Brightspace course for more information regarding quiz requirements and contact your instructor with any questions.  

College-loaned Laptops:

Follow the steps below to install Respondus LockDown Browser on a laptop you borrowed from the College.

• Search for and open the Software Center app from the start menu.

• Click on Respondus LockDown Browser from the Applications menu and click install. If the LockDown app doesn't appear under the list of applications, call the Student Technology Help Desk so we can grant you access.

• Once installed, head back to the exam page within Brightspace and click on the blue Launch LockDown Browser button.

• LockDown Browser will open and prompt you to close anything that is prohibited during the exam. 
• Provide a password, if required, and click Start Quiz whenever you're ready.
• Good luck!

Support Resources:

Contact Us

Additional Resources