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Distance Education

State Authorization

The University of Arkansas at Monticello delivers online programs and courses throughout the United States. All programs have been approved by the Arkansas Department of Higher Education. Many states have prescribed an “authorization” process for out-of-state institutions delivering online programs to its state residents to ensure quality post-secondary education, to preserve the integrity of an academic degree, and to instill greater consumer protection for its student citizens.

The University of Arkansas at Monticello has taken steps to protect its students and operations through nationwide compliance: by participation in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) or confirming that UAM can operate without such authorization because the state’s laws do not pertain to a public institution.

As of September 26, 2015, the University of Arkansas at Monticello, is approved by the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state oversight of postsecondary distance education. Institutions that are members of SARA are authorized to provide online education to students from all SARA member states.  States and institutions that choose to become members of SARA operate under a set of policies and standards overseen by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements and administered by four regional higher education compacts.   For more information about the SARA initiative and the progress of state and institutional membership.

Distance Education Student Handbook
Distance Education Faculty Handbook
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Online Classes

Your course may require the use of Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor for online assessments. LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within our Blackboard Learning Management System. When LockDown Browser is required for an online exam, students are unable to print, copy, visit other websites, or access other applications. Respondus Monitor is an online proctoring solution that adds webcam and video analytics to LockDown Browser. Respondus Monitor is a "companion product" for LockDown Browser and cannot be used without it.

You will not be able to access the exam with a standard internet browser. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of what LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor (the webcam feature) are. A student Quick Start Guide (PDF) is also available. The cost to download Respondus Lockdown Browser for students is free. Students will be required to purchase their own subscription for Respondus Monitor, valid for 12 months for all courses and exams that use Respondus Monitor at their institution. The price is curently $15.00 for 12 months. Payment is made the first time an exam requires the use of Respondus Monitor. Credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal are the only accepted methods of payment.

A web camera will also be required to take exams that have Respondus Monitor enabled. A web camera may be already built into your computer, or it can be the type that plugs into your computer with a USB cable. Web cameras are not provided to students. If you do not own a web camera, you will need to purchase one for the duration of the course, borrow one for the duration of the course, or use a computer that already has a web camera for the duration of the course.

Here is the link to download LockDown Browser: University of Arkansas - Monticello

Respondus Browser Download

If you’re unable to pay for Respondus Monitor, there are a few steps you can take to seek assistance:

  1. Contact Your Institution: Reach out to your school’s administration or financial aid office. They may have funds available to assist students with necessary educational expenses like Respondus Monitor.
  2. Discuss with Your Instructor: Let your instructor know about your situation. They may be able to provide alternatives or work with you to find a solution.
  3. Respondus Support: If you encounter technical issues or need help with Respondus Lockdown Browser or Respondus Monitor, you can start a live chat session from within the application itself. The average wait time for an agent is less than 30 seconds.
  4. Check for Institutional Policies: Some institutions may have policies in place to assist students who cannot afford the cost of proctoring services. It’s worth checking if your institution offers any such support.
  5. Technical Troubleshooting: If the issue is technical rather than financial, there are troubleshooting guides and support available to help you resolve common issues.
  6. System Requirements for Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor
  1. Windows: 11 and 10 Details
  2. Mac: macOS 10.15 to 14.0+
  3. iOS: 12.0+ (iPad only). Must have compatible LMS integration. Details
  4. Chromebook: Details
  5. Web camera (internal or external) & microphone
  6. A broadband internet connection that is strong and stable

Finally, when taking an online exam, follow these guidelines:

  • Select a location where you are comfortable having a video recording taken of yourself and your workspace environment. This area should also be free of distractions and interruptions.
  • Before starting the test, know how much time is available for it, and that you've allotted sufficient time to complete it.
  • Check to ensure your equipment (laptop, web camera, etc.) is working properly and address any issues before starting the exam
  • Turn off all mobile devices, phones, etc., and don't have them within reach.
  • Clear your area of all external materials — books, papers, other computers, or devices.
  • Remain at your desk or workstation for the duration of the test.
  • LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you will be unable to exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted

Remember, communication is key. Please do not hesitate to reach out for help if you’re facing financial difficulties that impact your ability to pay for educational resources.

 

NC-Sara logo

 Student Grievance Procedures

UAM works diligently to find positive outcomes to student concerns. Please exhaust all possible internal avenues of complaint resolution outlined in your Student Handbook before going outside the university.

All students enrolling in online courses should file their complaints with UAM and then if needed, with ADHE. To file a complaint with the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE), students must complete this complaint form within 20 days of completing the institution's grievance process.

Students may also file a complaint by contacting the Higher Learning Commission, which is the university's regional accrediting body, at Complaint Process | Student Resources (hlcommission.org) or 1-800-621-7440.

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