How to take part
Guidance on how to access BlackBoard Collaborate Ultra.
Before the session - how to prepare
Most of our online sessions are hosted through an online platform called Blackboard Collaborate.
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra is a live, virtual meeting environment that allows text chat, video/audio chat, and presentations.
You will need:
- Your link to the session. We will send you this no later than 24 hours before the start of your session.
- Google Chrome and a computer. If using a mobile device, we recommend you use Google Chrome for Android or download the BlackBoard Collaborate app.
- Internet access (broadband/wi-fi connection highly recommended)
- Audio input and output (speakers/headphones and microphone) and keyboard or keypad in case you need to use the text chat
- Give yourself time to familiarise yourself with Blackboard's features and accessibility, and check that it's compatible with your device
- Know what time the session's on, and if relevant to you, be aware of your time zone
Useful links:
Download the Google Chrome browser
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra - Audio and video setup help
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra Online Orientation and Participant Guide
Access the session
- Access your links (you will be able to open this 15 minutes prior to the official start time).
- Enter a name (this doesn’t have to be your actual name if you don’t want to disclose it) to access the session. We ask for this so we can see who is taking part and address the right person.
- Once in the session, please check your audio is setup to ensure you can hear.
During your session
During your session, staff from the School or department will be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Please follow their lead for etiquette.
- If you are having problems, use the chat window to communicate with the moderator.
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra Online Orientation and Participant Guide
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra support
Accessibility
Blackboard is fully committed to ensuring all their products and services they deliver are both usable and accessible to all users.
Blackboard collaborate have useful information to help support you accessing the sessions.
Accessibility in Blackboard Collaborate
If you have any additional accessibility requirements you think we should be aware of that may impact your participation, please email vetug@ed.ac.uk as soon as possible. We will then follow up with you via email to discuss how we can best support you.
Technical support
If you have any problems accessing or using Blackboard Collaborate, you should refer to the support site for help.