Class Collaborate
Class Collaborate is a web-based tool that some instructors use to conduct live online meetings with chat, video streaming, and screen-sharing tools. Class Collaborate sessions are usually accessed through links within a course in Blackboard. If you have trouble accessing a Class Collaborate session, see our Class Collaborate Troubleshooting Tips.
Technical Requirements
To use Class Collaborate, you will need:
A computer with the latest update of the Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox web browser or the Blackboard Student App on a mobile device. Your web browser must allow cookies/third-party cookies. See these instructions for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
A stable internet connection. If you are using WiFi, move closer to your router.
A webcam and speakers or a headset microphone.
The Class Collaborate session link that your instructor provides you to join the session. If joining through a guest link, always identify yourself with your first and last name so that your instructor may take note of your attendance.
Getting Started with Class Collaborate
Refer to the Student Quick Start Guide and the following video to learn how to prepare for and navigate a Class Collaborate session.
Netiquette for Online Meetings
Quality Audio is Important
We recommend purchasing a good quality headset microphone or earbuds to ensure that participants in a videoconference can hear you and that you can hear participants without any background noise. Affordable microphones or earbuds are available for purchase online or at your local Walmart.
Prepare in Advance
Review any instructions, the meeting’s agenda, and expectations for participation well in advance of the meeting. Whenever possible, log into the session 10 to 15 minutes early so that you can install any needed software applications specific to the tool being used and so that you can resolve technical problems before the meeting begins. Plan on connecting to an online meeting in a quiet space and turn off your cell phone so that there are minimal distractions while the meeting is in progress.
Active Participation is Required
Treat an online meeting just as you would a traditional face-to-face meeting. Be an active participant. Use the provided chat and feedback tools, but wait your turn to contribute to spoken conversation. While other participants in the online meeting speak, please mute your microphone so that background noises in your area do not disrupt the conversation. Never interrupt or talk over other participants.