Learner Support Services
A Directorate of Corporate Services
Blackboard is a virtual learning environment (VLE) that supports learning and teaching. It is available to all University of Bradford staff and students worldwide. (Please note: Blackboard is not compatible with the Google Chrome browser).
Blackboard can support learning and teaching by delivering online learning materials, providing opportunities for peer and staff support, facilitating collaborative exercises using the Virtual Classroom and Discussion Board and assessing student performance using formative quizzes. (The University also supports online assessment software called QuestionMark Perception, which is designed to deliver online formative and summative assessments. If you want to find out more contact ICT Servicedesk).
Blackboard can also be used administratively to make announcements, email, survey users and monitor performance.
Blackboard is in some ways no different from a lecture room, an overhead projector, a video or any other piece of equipment or software designed to help you learn. The way it is used will depend on your lecturer. Many lecturers use Blackboard extensively; others may not use it at all.
If your tutor updates Blackboard frequently then you will need to visit frequently. Some tutors use Blackboard's annoucements facility to post urgent information (e.g. a change of lecture room). In these cases ideally you need to log into Blackboard daily. Ask your tutor if you're in any doubt.
If your course does not have a Blackboard presence this is not a reflection on the quality of course or service provided. The nature of the course being taught may mean that a Virtual Learning Environment does not provide the services required.
When you first log onto Blackboard you will see four tabs:
If you are not enrolled on modules which you believe you should be, you must contact your tutor or administrator.
Note: Though it's possible to have access to computer facilities before officially completing your enrolment as a student at Bradford, your module enrolments will not be completed until you have completed enrolment on your course. If you are missing certain modules, please complete the missing modules form.
If you have not found the help you require via the Help options in Blackboard, then the Library and IT Help desk may be able to help. Please note that thousands of courses are hosted through Blackboard. If your query relates to a specific course it is more appropriate to speak to your tutor in the first instance.
