Discovering whether your exam is proctored on Canvas is crucial for proper preparation, as it requires specific technical and environmental setup. Instructors and institutions are required to disclose this information, so you should never be caught by surprise. There are several definitive places to check within your Canvas course to find out.
1. Check the Quiz Instructions and Details (The First Place to Look)
The most direct way to know is to look at the exam/quiz link itself in your Canvas course.
- Click on the Quiz Link: Even before you start the exam, navigate to the "Quizzes" section in your course and click on the title of the upcoming exam.
- Read the Description and Instructions: Carefully read the text on the quiz details page. Instructors will often explicitly state, "This exam is proctored using [Respondus LockDown Browser, Honorlock, etc.]" right here.
- Look for Notices: You may see a bright yellow or red banner at the top of the quiz page warning you that a LockDown Browser is required. This is a clear indicator.
2. Review the Syllabus and Course Announcements
Your instructor's official communications are the most reliable source.
- Course Syllabus: Scrutinize the syllabus, especially the section on exams and grading. It should specify the testing method.
- Recent Announcements: Instructors almost always send one or more reminders before a proctored exam, detailing the software you need to install and the rules you must follow.
3. Look for Technical Clues and Required Software
Sometimes, the platform itself gives it away.
- "Requires Respondus LockDown Browser": When you look at the quiz list, you might see this text directly under the quiz title.
- Practice Quiz: Many courses will have an ungraded "practice quiz" that uses the proctoring software. This is designed to help you test your setup. If you have a practice quiz that forces you to use a special browser, your real exam will too.
- Course Modules or "Start Here" Page: Instructors often place proctoring information in a dedicated module or page at the top of the course.
What to Do If You're Still Unsure:
If you've checked all these places and see no mention of proctoring, it is highly unlikely to be proctored. However, for absolute certainty, ask your instructor or a teaching assistant directly. A simple email like, "Hello, could you please confirm if the upcoming [Exam Name] will be proctored and if it requires any special software?" is perfectly appropriate and demonstrates responsibility.