Using Matlab in exam conditions - how can I block student access to file system and internet

Hi,

We are planning an online exam for engineering students. The university has a secure browser that blocks most things automatically. However, I would like my students to be able to use Matlab for some simple functions (e.g. probability density and eigenvalue calculations). Since Matlab has extensive features for editing files and accessing network, this might compromise examination conditions (e.g. students could open pre-prepared scripts and text files with information etc). Is there a way to allow students use Matlab with reduced features?

Regards Lana

[dpb]

Within Matlab, I think not. Seems like you would have to have it on a "clean" machine environment. I'd suggest contact "official" TMW support and see if they have any suggestions.

[Jon]

Depending on your needs, there are websites that may perform the operations you need. Wolfram alpha is a good place to start.

Answer 1

[the cyclist]

Although this is almost certainly a lot more work than you are bargaining for, I could imagine deploying a GUI (possibly via MATLAB Compiler) that operationalizes only a handful of functions that you want your students to be able to use.

[Lana]

Thank you all for your answers and comments. I was hoping for a simple answer (oh you just run Matlab with option /examMode) :) Obviously it is not this simple so I will have to talk to our ITS and see if it can be done from outside Matlab, or maybe even find someone who can develop this sort of GUI. Using other software is not an option as Matlab is part of the curriculum. Thanks again.

[Shrinidhi Rao]

I would recommend using an application to block certain connections. On Mac it would be LittleSnitch and in Windows NetBalancer is a good program. You can selectively block internet access to Matlab.