Participating in a Blackboard Collaborate Session

introducing the new Collaborate

With Blackboard Collaborate, you can meet virtually online with your faculty and classmates, yet engage and interact as if you were in a traditional classroom. Blackboard Collaborate includes two-way audio, multi-point video, interactive whiteboard, application and desktop sharing, breakout rooms, and session recording. These tools are at your fingertips and easy to use. 

Blackboard Collaborate is also a great tool for hosting club meetings or creating a collaborative workspace for members of your community. 

Tips on Participating in a Session

Preparation

  • Find a comfortable place with no distractions.
  • Before your first session visit Blackboard Collaborate Help - Getting Started.
  • Plug in your webcam and microphone, if they are not built into your computer. For best results, use headphones with a built-in microphone. 
  • Watch the Interface Tour video below, and explore the Tutorials and Quick Guides to the right 

In Session

  • Be sure to join the session 5 – 10 minutes prior to the start.
  • Setup your audio and video when you first join a session.
  • Call into the session via telephone if your audio is not working well.
  • Participate in the session by responding to polls and providing feedback to the moderator.
  • Raise your hand by clicking the hand icon when you have a question or a comment.
  • Use Chat to send text messages to other participants and the moderator during the session.
  • Remember that running other applications on your computer can slow your connection to the session.

Participate from a Mobile Device

You can participate in a Blackboard Collaborate session directly from your mobile device directly in your browser (Safari on an iPhone or Chrome on an Android phone). On your mobile device, you are able to fully interact during the session:

  • Join live classes or meetings 
  • Share audio and video
  • Interact via text chat
  • View content shared by the instructor  
  • Use whiteboard tools 
  • Use emoticons, hand raising, polls, breakout rooms

When participating from a mobile device, you will have the best experience over Wi-Fi. screenshot of collaborate session on laptop and mobile


Login to Blackboard

Get Help

Technical Support and Student Help

Division of IT Service Desk

815-753-8100
servicedesk@niu.edu

Teaching Support and Faculty Help

Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning

815-753-0595
citl@niu.edu

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