Best Practices for Online Testing in Canvas (for Students)
Before The Test/Quiz
Know Your Due Date
Know your DUE date and time. If your instructor gives you a time block of one, two, or several days to complete an exam/quiz/test, DO NOT wait until the last minute to do it.
Know Basic Computer Specifications for Canvas
Ensure you have the minimum technological requirements needed for Canvas.
Check Your Browser
You may visit the Browser Checker and Device Requirements page to do a browser check for Canvas. Use Firefox or Google Chrome browsers for the best user experience.
Allow Pop-Ups from Canvas
Pop-up blockers may interfere with the normal functioning of Canvas. If you have pop-up blockers, you must disable them or allow pop-ups from Canvas.
These instructions will show you how to allow pop-ups in the most common internet browsers.
Use a Hard-Wired Connection When Possible
It is strongly recommended that you use a hard-wired connection plugged directly into your computer instead of a wireless connection when taking quiz.
A wireless connection will work but is NOT recommended because small fluctuations in your internet connectivity may interfere with the exam. If needed, move to another computer that has a wired internet connection.
Students can also take tests on campus, if interested more information is available at our computer labs information page.
Use the Right Device
While Canvas is functional on mobile devices, using them does not offer the same level of reliability or security as provided by a desktop or a laptop. We strongly recommend that you complete any assignment, test, or quiz on a more stable internet connection with a desktop or laptop.
Close All Windows and Applications
Check and Double Check the "Available Until" date!
The available until date is the point when you no longer take the quiz. Some quizzes may not have availability dates, but if they do and you're in the middle of a quiz when the availability date arrives, the quiz will force-submit and you won't get to finish.
This is different from the due date—if you submit a quiz after the due date, your submission will be marked late.
Review Respondus LockDown Browser Information
If your instructor requires the use of Respondus LockDown Browser or Respondus LockDown Browser with monitor to complete a quiz, be sure install the software and review the information below before taking the quiz:
- UHD Specific Installation instructions
- Student Quick Start Guide for Lockdown Browser with Canvas
- LockDown Browser: The Student Experience
If your instructor has a practice quiz using Respondus LockDown Browser, take the quiz to ensure your software is running smoothly and without problems.
Clear Your Cache
During The Test/Quiz
Be Mindful of the Side Bar Containing the Question List
If you get bumped out in the middle of the quiz, your instructor may allow you to
go back in and resume it. If you are able to resume the quiz, it will start back at
the beginning. However, you can find your way back to the question you were on by
checking the question list above the timer on the sidebar.
If you remember the question number, simply scroll down to it and click on it. If
you don't, a checkmark next to the question means you answered it, so simply scroll
down to the first question without a checkmark.
Watch the Timer
If this is a timed quiz, keep track of the timer. You will get a warning when you have 1 minute remaining in your quiz time.
Contact Your Instructor
If you are disconnected from your test session for any reason, you should close your browser, re-start the browser, and go back to the test in Canvas. If your instructor permits, you will be returned to the test question you were just viewing. If your instructor selects only one attempt for the exam, you cannot reenter a test. In such a case you must contact your instructor first regarding this. Make sure to include details as to what caused the problem.
Contact UHD Canvas Support to Report a Problem
All technical issues with Canvas tests and/or quizzes should be reported to UHD Canvas Support at (713) 221-2786. Be sure to contact your instructor first!
Support hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. For support issues beyond these
listed times, email ttlchelp@uhd.edu or leave a message for the next business day.
Detail the Issue
If you run into an issue during your quiz, take note of all the details as to what caused the problem. Take a screenshot if possible (Windows Instructions – Apple Mac Instructions).
For additional support, email TTLCHelp@uhd.edu.