Appendix A: About the Secure Browser
This appendix provides additional information about securing the test environment, configuring tablets for testing,
For more information about installing the Secure Browser, see the Technology Guide available on the OSAS Portal (http://osasportal.org).
Additional Measures for Securing the Test Environment
The Secure Browser ensures test security by prohibiting access to external applications or navigation away from the test. This section provides additional measures you can implement to ensure the test environment is secure.
- Close External User Applications
Before launching the Secure Browser, or prior to administering the online tests, close all non-required applications on testing devices, such as word processors and web browsers.
- Do Not Test with Dual Monitors
Students should not take online tests on computers connected to more than one monitor. Systems that use a dual monitor setup typically display an application on one screen while another application is accessible on the other screen.
- Disable Screen Savers and Timeout Features
On all testing devices, be sure to disable any features that display a screen saver or log users out after a period of inactivity. If such features activate while a student is testing, the Secure Browser logs the student out of the test.
Forbidden Application Detection
When the Secure Browser launches, it checks for other applications running on the device. If it detects a forbidden application, it displays a message listing the offending application and prevents the student from testing. This also occurs if a forbidden application launches while the student is already in a test.
In some cases, a detected forbidden application is a scheduled or background job, such as anti-virus scans or software updates. The best way to prevent forbidden applications from running during a test is to schedule such jobs outside of planned testing hours.