Student Tech Guides

The following guides cover how to navigate and use the online systems which will be part of your learning experience at the University.

Your Online Classroom

Blackboard

Blackboard is an online space for you to engage with course materials, assessment and feedback.

This video covers:

The different content which can be hosted on Blackboard
How to navigate Blackboard in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities
How to find your module information
What is Blackboard Collaborate and how to effectively use it
How to see what tasks and activities have been set by your tutor for each module you are taking

Blackboard Collaborate

Blackboard Collaborate is a virtual conferencing tool that allows you to join and take part in a live classroom session.

Students working collaboratively around a computer.

A Blackboard Discussion Board is an online space where you can read, reply and post with the rest of your class at a time that suits you. Some discussion activities may have a deadline set by your instructor.

This video covers:

What a breakout room is in Blackboard Collaborate
How to select a room to join
How to ask a question while in a room
Using the Whiteboard feature to annotate
How to share files and your screen in rooms

Your Online Assessments

Turnitin

Turnitin allows you to submit essays, reports and dissertations and get feedback on your writing.

This video covers:

How to navigate Turnitin in order to view the feedback on an assignment

Blackboard Assignments

Blackboard Assignments allow you to submit multiple pieces of assessment including reports, posters, video and audio. You can also get feedback on your work.

Multimedia Assignments (Kaltura)

Kaltura can be used to submit media work within Blackboard. All students can upload audio and video files into a personal media library. Use Kaltura Capture to create screen recordings, or to record video from your webcam.

Students working collaboratively at a computer.

Pebblepad

PebblePad is known as a 'Learning Journey Platform', or sometimes a 'Personal Learning Space', and is most commonly used at the University of Sheffield for the creation of reflective Workbooks.

Blackboard Tests

Blackboard Tests and quizzes allow you to check your understanding and get feedback.

This video covers:

How to navigate Pebblepad
How to complete tasks set on Pebblepad
Uploading media and adding links to your Workbook
Submitting your Workbook

Getting Help

If you have technical issues or require support in using any of these tools you can contact the Arts and Humanities Digital Learning Team by emailing: artsdigitallearning@sheffield.ac.uk