Joining a Web Conferencing Session

• Blackboard Collaborate at USM
• Joining a Blackboard Collaborate Session online tutorial

This document is for Students and Faculty. There is additional documentation for faculty.

We are currently supporting Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing. 

Getting Ready

• Ensure that you are at the computer on which you will attend your web conferencing session, and that is it connected to the Internet.
• Ensure that you have a microphone and speakers to participate in audio.
• Ensure that audio is working correctly on your computer.
• Ensure that you are an administrator on your computer and can install software. If you are unsure, please contact your system administrator.

Go to the Blackboard Collaborate Support Portal

First Time Users find the correct version for your session. Your instructor will provide a url for your session  and they should tell you if you are going to be using anything other than Blackboard Collaborate. 

Step One: Java

Clicking on the link for Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing will take you to a Java check page.

• Do you have a green check mark?
• Yes?  Go to the next step.
• No? Follow the instructions to update Java.

• Mac Users Note: Java is part of your Operating System. You can skip this test.

Step Two: Testing Blackboard Collaborate -- optional

Scroll down to the Configuration page. (optional)

This will take you into an actual virtual classroom. If you successfully connect, you should test your audio as instructed on the whiteboard. If you cannot access the session, contact the helpdesk (207-780-4029) for assistance.

• During the installation you may see a security warning that states “This application is requesting unrestricted access to your local machine and network.” Click Start.
• You may see a License Agreement. Click on I Agree.
• When complete, choose Exit from the File menu.

Step Three - On Demand Training

Our Online classrooms are provided by Blackboard Collaborate, and they have online training available. Recorded sessions will afford you practice in joining a session.

Blackboard Collaborate Orientation

Blackboard Collaborate On Demand Training
(moderators click on For Moderators to see resources)

Now you’re ready to join a scheduled session.  You will receive a link to your USM Online Classroom; click the link to join during the scheduled class time. 

Troubleshooting

Trouble getting to USM Online Classrooms? 

• Sometimes clicking a link from within Blackboard doesn’t work.  Cutting & pasting the full URL into the address line of your browser should work.  Make sure you have the full link.  Instructors should be careful to use the tinyurl's provided.

Error message trying to connect? 

• Some corporations restrict access to external sites such as USM Online Classrooms (Elluminate). 
• If you have a firewall installed, it may need to be configured to allow access to USM Online Classrooms (Blackboard Collaborate). 

Audio trouble? 

• Once in the USM Online Classrooms session, choose Tools > Audio > Audio Setup Wizard.  The Audio Wizard will help you configure audio correctly. 

The USM Computing Helpdesk is open 8 – 4:30 p.m. at 780-4029 or Helpdesk@usm.maine.edu

Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing Guide:

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