Ask the Library

In order for you to access a collaborate session your lecturer will have sent you a link to your NMT student email account.

10 minutes before your session starts you should use this link to log into the collaborate session and test that your headphones and microphone are working.

If you are having difficulties, you should send your lecturer an email or use the blackboard chat function to type them a message to let them know.

What you need for a successful Collaborate experience

An up to date Browser

Collaborate is only certified to run on the two most recent versions of each browser.  The best browser for Collaborate is Google Chrome, but others will work.  There is an up to date list of Browsers here: https://help.blackboard.com/Collaborate/Ultra/Participant/Get_Started/Browser_Support

If you are having trouble accessing Collaborate in Google Chrome, you may need to enable 3rd party cookies.

In the top right hand corner of the Chrome Browser:

• Click on the three vertical dots 
• Click on Settings.
• At the bottom of the settings box Click on Advanced 
• In the Privacy and Security section, Click on Site Settings.
• Select Cookies 
• Uncheck the box next to Block Third Party Cookies so it is disabled

Below you will find a Help Sheet to assist you with this process

A stable internet connection

A wired connection will give a more stable connection than a wireless one, though in most cases a wireless connection will work fine.  If you know the internet connection in your location is poor, you may need to consider using Collaborate elsewhere.

A headset with microphone

These are essential for clear communication with a minimum of background interference.  A cheap set from a stationary store will work fine

The library can help

If you do not have access to a computer or internet connection, the libraries on each campus have PCs that you can use.

Audio and Connectivity Issues

Audio and connectivity issues are common in all online collaboration tools, and Blackboard Collaborate is no exception.  You may experience problems, and usually they come down to network connectivity issues, or browser settings. 

Check your Browser settings as there are specific settings for each browser that can affect your ability to use audio and video.

If you cannot hear with your microphone then check that the plug is in the PC socket correctly, try another socket on your PC

In General

There are a few simple steps that can be taken to improve your connectivity

Close all other internet browsers and tabs

Each tab in your browser is drawing bandwidth.  Close everything except for the tab that has Collaborate open in it.

Check who else is using the connection in your location

If someone in your house is watching Netflix and you are sharing the connection, you may need to ask them to pause their viewing until later.

Use Google Chrome

Google wrote the technology that underpins Collaborate.  Therefore, while other browsers will technically work, Chrome is your best bet.

Use a computer rather than a phone (if possible)

Collaborate will run on a phone, so if that is all you have it’s OK to use one.  However, to experience all of Collaborates features, a computer is best.

Further information can be found on the Blackboard help 

Moderator instructions

https://help.blackboard.com/Collaborate/Ultra/Moderator/Moderate_Sessions/Audio_and_Video

Student instructions

Getting started

https://help.blackboard.com/Collaborate/Ultra/Participant/Get_Started

Audio and Video setup

https://help.blackboard.com/Collaborate/Ultra/Participant/Participate_in_Sessions/Audio_and_Video