Both Impero and Respondus LockDown Browser are tools designed to help faculty maintain academic integrity during online assessments. Each has distinct strengths and is best suited for different scenarios.
What is Impero?
- Provides real-time monitoring of student devices during exams.
- Allows instructors to view screens, restrict access to websites/apps, and intervene immediately.
- Useful for both exam proctoring and general classroom management.
Best Used for:
- In-person or remote exams where live supervision is possible.
- Situations requiring broad oversight of multiple devices or platforms.
How to Use Effectively:
- Set up monitoring before the exam begins.
- Actively watch student screens during the assessment.
- Use restriction features to block unauthorized resources.
- Be prepared to intervene if suspicious activity is detected.
What is Respondus LockDown Browser?
- Creates a secure, locked-down environment for online exams.
- Prevents students from accessing other websites, applications, or copying/pasting.
Best Used for:
- Fully online exams delivered through Brightspace or similar LMS.
- Assessments requiring strict digital security and minimal instructor intervention.
How to Use Effectively:
- Enable LockDown Browser settings in your Brightspace course exam.
- Inform students they must download and use the LockDown Browser for the test.
Review the full Brightspace FAQ for detailed instructions on using Respondus.
Key Differences Between Impero and Respondus LockDown Browser
| Feature/Aspect | Impero | Respondus LockDown Browser |
| Monitoring | Live, instructor-driven | N/A |
| Integration | General, less LMS-focused | Seamless with Brightspace |
| Security | Flexible, broad oversight | Strict, exam-focused lockdown |
| Best For | Hybrid/in-person exams, classroom management | Secure online exams |
| Contact For Help | ITS: Helpdesk@brooklyn.cuny.edu | Brightspace Support: BrSFaculty@Brooklyn.cuny.edu Carlos Cruz: CarlosA@brooklyn.cuny.edu |
Recommendations
- Use Impero when you want to actively supervise students and need flexible device management.
- Use Respondus LockDown Browser for online exams requiring strict security and LMS integration.
- If a more tailored proctoring environment is required, faculty can collaborate with ITS to achieve the desired setting as effectively as possible by utilizing alternative endpoint management tools.