Center for Teaching and Learning
Student Class Collaborate
Class Collaborate is a versatile platform designed to empower instructors with a comprehensive toolkit for diverse instructional needs. Whether the goal is to deliver engaging pre-recorded lectures that students can access at their own pace, conduct dynamic live sessions with real-time interaction, or foster personalized support through virtual office hours, Class Collaborate provides the necessary features. This flexibility ensures that instructors can tailor their teaching methods to best suit the subject matter and the learning styles of their students, ultimately creating a more accessible and effective educational experience.
Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox are the recommended internet browsers for Class Collaborate. As with any other software, it is recommended that these browsers be updated regularly. Outdated software may cause features to function improperly.
Open the Class Collaborate Browser Support web tutorial to learn more.
Similar to a face-to-face classroom, be sure to practice proper etiquette during web conferencing. Simple actions—such as turning off your microphone when not speaking, disabling your webcam when you don’t need to be seen, and joining a session on time or early—are just a few best practices that help create a positive experience and make a strong impression in a virtual setting.
• Quiet Area: When you are about to enter a Collaborate session, make sure you are in a quiet environment. This helps reduce echoes or loud feedback that you may not be able to control.
• Audio options: If a microphone or headset is not available, you may dial in using the Collaborate phone number provided by the instructor (long-distance rates may apply).
• Mute your microphone: Mute (or turn off) your microphone when it is not in use. This ensures you are not speaking over the presenter.
• Strong Internet Connection: Since audio and other multimedia are being shared to your device, make sure you have a strong internet connection. A wired connection is recommended, but Wi‑Fi and mobile data will also work.
• Close unnecessary programs: It is recommended that you close unnecessary programs to help Class Collaborate run more smoothly.
Whether you’re enrolled in a formal Blackboard course or participating in a one-off session, accessing Class Collaborate is straightforward. You can access Class Collaborate from within a Blackboard course or through a Guest Link provided by the instructor. Regardless of the access method, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a compatible browser for an optimal experience.
Open the Class Collaborate Where to Access text tutorial to learn more.
Stepping into the world of Class Collaborate can feel like entering a familiar classroom, even if it’s entirely online. This web conferencing platform is specifically designed for educational settings, offering a simple, user-friendly interface that’s both convenient and reliable. Regardless of where you are or the device you’re using, Class Collaborate strives to create the feeling of a shared learning space, making online education more connected and immersive.
Open the Class Collaborate web tutorial to learn more.
The Class Collaborate Tools and Navigation tutorial serves as a foundational guide for both instructors and students who aim to effectively utilize the platform’s features during online sessions. By understanding the purpose and operation of each tool, participants can seamlessly contribute to discussions, present materials, and interact with one another, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of the online learning experience.
Open the Class Collaborate Tools and Navigation web tutorial to learn more.
In Class Collaborate, establishing clear communication is essential. After successfully configuring your audio and video settings, the next crucial step is to enable both your camera and microphone. By embracing visual and auditory participation, you create a more engaging and impactful learning experience for yourself and your peers.
Open the Class Collaborate Use Audio and Video web tutorial to learn more.
Class Collaborate offers a built-in telephony feature that allows you to communicate with other participants using your phone. This telephony option enhances accessibility and provides a reliable communication channel for all participants, ensuring that everyone can fully engage in the Collaborate session.
Open the Class Collaborate Call Into a Session web tutorial to learn more.
Participating in text-based chat comments within a Class Collaborate session is a valuable way to engage with the instructor and fellow students. Remember to keep your comments concise, respectful, and relevant to the current topic to maximize the benefit for yourself and your classmates.
Open the Use Class Collaborate Chat web tutorial to learn more.
In Class Collaborate, the “Share Content” panel is your gateway to presenting materials and engaging with your audience in a dynamic way. These options usually include the ability to share a blank whiteboard for collaborative brainstorming, share your entire screen or a specific application window, share files (such as PowerPoint presentations or PDFs), and sometimes even share audio or video. If you don’t see the Share Content panel, it likely means your instructor hasn’t enabled sharing privileges for participants, so it’s always a good idea to check with them directly.
Open the Class Collaborate Share Content web tutorial to learn more.
If your instructor wants you to present materials to the class or pre-record a presentation, you may do so using the Presenter or Moderator role (the recording option is available only with Moderator access). Enter the session, share content (for example, a file or application), turn on your microphone, and record. Your instructor provides the privileges required to record a session. If you do not see the option available in the session and require this functionality, please reach out to your instructor.
Open the Class Collaborate Record Sessions text tutorial to learn more.
Once a session is recorded, the recording becomes available for participants to access, typically shortly after the session ends. By watching the recording, students can reinforce their understanding, clarify any confusion, and ensure they haven’t missed vital information discussed during the live session.
Open the Class Collaborate Recordings text tutorial to learn more.
Since Class Collaborate is hosted within a web browser, we recommend using Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome for the best experience. If you encounter technical issues, try the troubleshooting techniques listed below.
• Close any other applications or browser windows, especially those that may be using your camera or microphone.
• Use Google Chrome or Firefox. If you are already using one, try switching to the other.
• Check that your browser is fully up to date and supported (https://help.blackboard.com/Collaborate/Ultra/Participant/Get_Started/Browser_Support).
• Make sure your browser allows third-party cookies Google Chrome | Firefox.
• Check your Audio and Video Setup to ensure your microphone is set up properly.
• Check the browser’s microphone and webcam settings to confirm the correct input is selected and that Class Collaborate has not been blocked.
• Clear your browser’s cache Google Chrome | Firefox
• When in doubt, try restarting your computer.
• Disable ad blockers and extensions, then refresh your Class Collaborate session. If necessary, try Chrome in an Incognito window or Firefox in a Private window.
• Home networking troubleshooting tips: https://support.class.com/s/article/Collaborate-home-networking-troubleshooting-tips
Class is fully committed to ensuring that all products and services we deliver are both usable and accessible to all users, regardless of age, ability, or situation. In keeping with our strong tradition of leadership in accessibility, our products are designed and developed in accordance with the internationally recognized Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA, as well as the Section 508 standards in the United States. A third party conducts regular audits of our software to ensure quality expectations are met and maintained. Class for Web VPAT 2.4-2021 PDF
Contact Us
- Center for Teaching and Learning
- Governors State University - C Building
- 708-534-4115
- blackboard@govst.edu