Blackboard collaboration tools allow you to participate in real time lessons and discussions with others who are enrolled in the course. There are two types of collaboration sessions, described below:

• The Virtual Classroom allows students and instructors to participate in question and answer sessions, browse the web, and chat with other users.
• The Lightweight-Chat contains only the chat feature.

Note: You need the Java Plug-in to access collaboration tools. You will not be able to access these tools if you have a pop-up blocker enabled. You can get a free download of Java software at http://java.sun.com/products/plugin/index.html or at  http://java.com/en/download/index.jsp

Not all classes use collaboration sessions. Many instructors prefer to use the Discussion Board in place of chats.

Joining a Collaboration Session

1. In the Course page, click the Communication button in the Course Menu.
2. Click the Collaboration link.
3. Click the Join Session button next to the session you want to join.
4. When you are finished with a session, click the Close button to close the session window.
5. Click the OK button.

Need more help?

• Call the Blackboard Help Desk at 503-657-6958, Ext. 5065
• E-mail questions to online@clackamas.edu
• Contact Distance Learning at 503-657-6958, Ext. 2462

This page is maintained by the Blackboard Administrator at Clackamas Community College and was updated on 06/01/2006.