Blackboard is one of the best online learning environments available and, to date, has proven a reliable and easy-to-use partner for Napa Valley College students and faculty.
However, Blackboard is a complex system which relies on various technologies to run effectively on your home machine. Specifically, you will need to enable and download certain features and software in order to truly enjoy your Blackboard experience.
Before the start of the semester, we recommend you run the Browser Checkup to ensure you will have a trouble free time online.
Be sure you have the required "plug-ins." Your instructor may use video and other multi-media files in your online class that require software plug-ins. CLICK HERE to get what you need free.
Trouble Logging in? Download the how-to here.
Troubleshooting Tips
Java
Java technology drives most of the interactive features of Blackboard. For example, you need the right version of Java to use the Chat, email, file manager, and gradebook portions of the learning environment.
Download the current latest working version of Java
Popup Blockers
Popups must be enabled for Blackboard to work. There is no exception to this. Many computers have several popup blockers and all must allow popups from cehosting.blackboard.com. Failure to enable popups will mean you won't be able to use the email, chat, or file manager portions of Blackboard.
The most common popup blockers include:
- Google Toolbar
- Yahoo Toolbar
- MSN
- Norton or Symmantec Suite
- McAfee Suite
- Firefox or IE
You will know you've got a popup problem if you are having trouble with "Page Not Displayed" issues, or when you click a button and nothing happens, or if you hear a noise that doesn't sound happy.
If this sounds familiar, please go to http://cehosting.blackboard.com, find the popup icon on the Internet Explorer tool bar, and uncheck "block popups on this site." If you have another of the blockers listed above, check their site or help file for information on how to allow trusted sites to share popups.
Norton & Symantec Suites
If you happen to have Norton or Symantec Internet Security installed on your system, and Blackboard is not working the way you'd expect it to, try this:
At the bottom of your Windows screen, you will see a shield next to the clock icon. If you see it, right click on it and click on "deactivate"
Turn it off for 5 minutes (not any more).
Now, try logging into Blackboard and using the tools that were proving problematic.
If they work, please download the Troubleshooting Guide to learn how to strategically deactivate the offending parts of Norton.
Plato really is your friend
Using Plato in your online class? Check out the Plato troubleshooting guide to get your computer ready for the first day!
Other Concerns and Comments
- Avoid using commas (,) or colons (:) in the titles of your assignments or submissions. This seems to confuse Blackboard.
- Change your password as soon as you login for the first time. This will ensure that only you will be able to use your online course.
- Avoid bookmarking the Blackboard start page, instead bookmark: http://online.napavalley.edu
- Avoid saving your username and password in IE. This seems to corrupt over time and, if you've not memorized your password, may lock you out of the course at a bad time (like right before a test!).