Exam Lock / Exam Mode for C-Pen
Overview
Exam Lock (sometimes referred to as Exam Mode) is designed to restrict features that could provide additional assistance during assessments.
On C-Pen Reader 2, C-Pen Reader 3, and C-Pen Lingo 3, Exam Lock limits access to selected functions so the device operates primarily as a text-reading tool. This can be useful for mock exams, assessments, or other situations where schools wish to restrict advanced functionality.
The C-Pen Exam Reader 2 is a dedicated exam reading pen designed specifically for exam environments and already operates with exam-appropriate restrictions in place.
Important: Activating Exam Lock does not automatically make a device compliant with all examination regulations. Always follow the guidance provided by your school, SENCO, awarding body, or exam board.
Related settings
- Exam Lock: toggles the lock of functions ON or OFF.
- Lock Mode: Selects what functions to be enabled or disabled while Exam Lock is active.
What Exam Lock Does
When Exam Lock is activated on a Reader 2, Reader 3, or Lingo 3:
- Voice input (microphone) is disabled.
- Conversation Translation is disabled.
- Dictionary/Definition functions can be restricted.
- Word Translation can be restricted.
- Full Text Translation can be restricted.
- Certain Text-to-Speech (TTS) behaviours are modified.
- Voice-based features within Reader, Definition, and Translation modes become unavailable.
This helps ensure the pen functions primarily as a reading support tool rather than providing additional assistance that may not be permitted during an assessment.
Features Restricted by Exam Lock
|
Feature |
Behaviour in Exam Lock |
|
Voice Input (Microphone) |
Always disabled |
|
Conversation Translation |
Always disabled |
|
Dictionary Definitions |
Can be enabled or disabled by the administrator |
|
Word Translation |
Can be enabled or disabled by the administrator |
|
Full Text Translation |
Can be enabled or disabled by the administrator |
|
Text-to-Speech Behaviour |
Modified to restrict certain symbols, abbreviations, and number formats |
If a user attempts to access a restricted feature, an on-screen message will explain that the function is unavailable while Exam Lock is active.
Why These Restrictions Exist
Exam Lock is intended to:
- Support assessment integrity.
- Reduce the risk of unauthorised assistance.
- Help create a controlled testing environment.
- Limit access to tools that may provide additional information beyond simply reading text aloud.
- Encourage consistent use of approved accessibility support during assessments.
Exam Lock may be appropriate:
- During mock exams or practice assessments.
- During school-based tests where advanced features need to be restricted.
- When a school wants students to access text-to-speech support without translation or dictionary assistance.
- When a Reader 2, Reader 3, or Lingo 3 needs to operate more like a dedicated reading pen.
You should always check your school's assessment policy and exam regulations before using any assistive technology during formal examinations.
Reader 2, Reader 3 and Lingo 3 vs Exam Reader 2
Reader 2, Reader 3 and Lingo 3
These devices include additional learning and language-support features such as:
- Dictionaries
- Translation tools
- Voice input
- Language learning functions
- Other productivity features
Exam Lock can be used to restrict these functions when required.
Exam Reader 2
The C-Pen Exam Reader 2 is a dedicated reading pen specifically intended for exam environments. It focuses on reading printed text aloud and does not include many of the advanced learning tools found on Reader and Lingo devices.
Schools and exam centres may prefer the Exam Reader 2 where a permanently restricted reading solution is required.
How to Enable or Disable Exam Lock
- From the Main Menu, select Settings.
- Press the main button to enter Settings.
- Press Down ten times to reach System Settings.
- Press the main button.
- Exam Lock is displayed on the first screen.
- Use the Left and Right buttons to select the required option.
- Create a 4-digit PIN:
- Use Up and Down to select each digit.
- Use Left and Right to move between digits.
- Press the main button to confirm and activate the lock.
- To disable Exam Lock, repeat the process and enter the same PIN.
Voice Input Restrictions
When Exam Lock is enabled:
- Voice input in Reader mode is disabled.
- Voice input in Dictionary/Definition mode is disabled.
- Voice input in Translation mode is disabled.
- Conversation Translation is unavailable because microphone access is disabled.
If a user attempts to use a voice feature while Exam Lock is active, the device will display an on-screen notification.
Text-to-Speech Behaviour in Exam Lock
Exam Lock modifies some Text-to-Speech behaviour to reduce the possibility of providing additional information during assessments.
This may include:
- Omitting certain symbols during readout.
- Restricting the pronunciation of some abbreviations.
- Altering how some number formats are spoken.
- Modifying how certain Roman numerals are read in supported situations.
Actual behaviour may vary depending on the software version, language selected, and text being scanned.
Key Takeaway
Exam Lock helps transform the C-Pen Reader 2, C-Pen Reader 3, and C-Pen Lingo 3 into assessment-focused reading devices by restricting voice input, translation tools, dictionary features, and other functions that may provide additional assistance.
For organisations that require a dedicated reading pen designed specifically for examination use, the C-Pen Exam Reader 2 provides a purpose-built alternative focused on reading printed text aloud while maintaining student independence.