blackboardsupport@wccc.edu 
Toll
Free 1.800.262.2103 ext 4144 or 4138 Dial
Direct 724.925.4144 or 724.925.4138
Chat Sessions aka Collaboration Sessions
Your Blackboard course contains two different types of "chat" programs in the Collaboration area under Communication. The first program is the Lecture Hall or Virtual Classroom; this allows students to get together (with or without the instructor) and discuss course topics or projects. It allows the instructor to bring in guest speakers or to hold live review/discussion sessions. If a chat session has been recorded, you will see a Recordings button to the right of the chat session name.
The second "chat" program is called Office Hours or Chat and is a text messaging chat room, much like a Yahoo or AOL instant messenger chat. Students will be able to chat with each other or the instructor, but will not be able to incorporate any graphics or multimedia information into the chats like the Virtual Classroom.
Troubleshooting Collaboration Sessions
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An up-to-date version of Java is required. The screen that appears in Blackboard after clicking on Join for a Collaboration session includes a link to update Java if necessary.
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Pop-up blockers should be turned off.
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There are a number of firewall and anti-virus program settings that can prevent a Collaboration session from opening on individual computers.