Online learning platforms
Your tutors will be using a range of different online tools and platforms to provide you with a stimulating and interactive learning experience. To support you to access the key platforms we have developed some useful guidance.
Learning Edge is the name we use to refer to Edge Hill’s online environment for learning and teaching. It consists of the Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), and a range of other tools such as Turnitin. You will find Course and Module areas related to your course in Blackboard, along with links to a range of other useful resources.
Learning Edge
What is Learning Edge? This quick guide describes the suite of Edge Hill University teaching and learning tools.
Learning Edge (Blackboard): Getting Started
An absolute beginner’s introduction to accessing and finding your way around Blackboard.
Learning Edge introductory videos
These videos have been created for new students, and as a refresher for returning students.
1. What is Learning Edge and how do I log in?
2. How do I find course areas and organisations?
3. Where can I find content and tools in an ULTRA view module area?
4. Where can I find content and tools in an ORIGINAL view module area?
5. How do I control my notifications?
6. Can I access Blackboard on my mobile device?
Blackboard Collaborate is a real-time virtual classroom tool that lets you add files, share applications, and use a virtual whiteboard to interact with your tutors and your fellow students. Each Learning Edge Course is supported by a dedicated virtual classroom via Blackboard Collaborate. Your tutors will let you know if/when you will need to access Collaborate as part of your course.
If you need help getting started or using Collaborate you may find the following video useful:
Collaborate for Students (Video)
If you would prefer a written guide, use the following link:
Collaborate: Getting Started
We have created an interactive online package (a ‘toolkit’) to help users work through the requirements for learning online. Use the following link to access it:
Online Learning Toolkit
Having trouble with your camera (or microphone) when using Collaborate? Watch the following video for the solution:
We have developed a ‘crib sheet’ of how to overcome that majority of issues that may occur when using Collaborate. Please feel free to download a copy so that you have it to hand in case of being unable to get to or join a Collaborate session. Check back here for updates.
To use the crib sheet, follow the instructions on the front page and then work your way through to the suggestions and solutions depending on your query. Please note it is in a protected Word format to retain formatting. Ensure to open in Word desktop version.
Blackboard CollaborateCollaborate chat support
Blackboard Collaborate now has a support feature which connects you to their own ‘Blackboard Bot Support Assistant’.
Whilst this feature can be used to try and seek support if things are not working as they should in any of your sessions, it is owned by Blackboard and will not connect you to the teams at Edge Hill who are readily on-hand to support you to resolve any issues that you may be experiencing.
This is a completely automated Chatbot feature which lets you enter the issue that you are experiencing during your session and will direct you to the relevant Blackboard Help pages.
Blackboard Bot Support Assistant can be found by accessing the ‘Collaborate’ menu then clicking on the ‘Settings’ item and then clicking on the ‘Chat Support’ button.
If you require help or support at any point, then we encourage you to contact Library and Learning Services by writing to: [email protected]
Qwickly is the tool used by tutors to register attendance, and you may be asked to ‘check-in’ during a lecture or seminar. Qwickly is accessed in the Course or Module area on Blackboard relevant to the session you are attending, your tutor will direct you to do this at the start if required.
The following guides are to help you become familiar with where and how to check-in. It is recommended that you ensure you are connected to EduRoam for the best experience.
Connecting to the EduRoam Wi-fi NetworkGuide to checking in on Qwickly