Will I have to login at the same class time?

This will vary per course. Some courses may meet at regularly scheduled times using a tool such as Blackboard Collaborate or Zoom. Please review your Blackboard Course Announcements and UTRGV Email to find out if any of your instructors will be conducting these sessions. 

When will my assignments be due?

This will vary per course and decided by each instructor. Please refer to your course syllabus.

How do I know if I’ve received a Blackboard Course Message?

This only applies, if your instructor decides to use Blackboard course messages. If your instructor is using Blackboard Course Messages, there will be a link listed on the course menu. Additionally, any new messages will appear in the "My Messages" module on the Blackboard homepage.

Where can I get help with Blackboard?

For Blackboard assistance, please contact the COLTT Help Desk at (956) 882-6792 or (956) 665-5327 or submit a help desk case. You can also search our knowledge base by clicking the orange support button in Blackboard.

Where can I download required software such as Respondus LockDown Browser, Panopto, or Zoom?

All of these technologies can be downloaded via the Student Support Tab in Blackboard.

Where can I download the Microsoft Office suite?

Please review the Download and Install Free Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus page on the IT website for instructions.

What is Zoom?

Zoom is a video-conferencing application that can be used for online meetings, classes, and virtual office hours. For more information, visit Zoom for Students.

How do I join a Zoom Session?

There are two ways you can join a Zoom session.

1. Via Blackboard: You will click on the Zoom link in your Blackboard Course Menu, then click "Join."
2. Via a Link: Your instructor will provide you a link via a Blackboard Announcement or Email.

What is Blackboard Collaborate Ultra?

Blackboard Collaborate Ultra is a video-conferencing application that can be used for online meetings, classes, and virtual office hours. For more information, visit Blackboard Collaborate Ultra for Students.

How do I join a Blackboard Collaborate Ultra Session?

You will click on the Blackboard Collaborate link in your course menu, then click "Join Room" on the course room or a specific session. Your instructor will provide more details on which session to join.

What is Panopto?

Panopto is a video hosting platform that allows students to review lecture recordings created by their instructors. To watch instructor made videos, no download is required. It also allows students to create video assignments and manage their videos within Blackboard. For more information, visit Panopto for Students.

What is Respondus LockDown Browser?

Respondus LockDown Browser is a locked browser for taking tests in Blackboard. It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during a test. If a Blackboard test requires that Respondus LockDown Browser be used, you will not be able to take the test with a standard web browser. For more information, visit Respondus LockDown Browser for Students.