Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some of the more common questions that are asked with regards to online learning at UFV:
I am unable to log in to my course, what is happening?
Your course does not open until noon on the first day of classes. If you are enrolled in a summer course you will not be able to log in until noon on May 7, 2012. Your course "closes" on the last day of the month of your final exam.
Otherwise, if you are trying to log in on or after noon on the first day of classes, most Student Log in problems can be attributed to the student using an incorrectly typed log in or password. You use your student id number and your password is the one you set when you first entered myUFV.
If you have registered, you should be automatically entered into your online course. If you do not see your course when you log in to myUFV, first confirm with A&R you are registered, then call the UFV HelpDesk (604-864-4610) or send an email to helpdesk.its@ufv.ca
How should my internet browser be configured to work properly with my online course?
If you do not configure your browser, your browser may not refresh the web page and you will not be able to view your changes to the web page.
Solution: Configure java, use full-featured browser, configure cache settings.
Here are some things that you can do to double check:
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Blackboard supports only full-featured browsers. Some providers, (such as America Online) provide their users with 'Customized' versions of Internet Explorer or Netscape. Because of the way that they utilize Javascript, they are not compatible with Blackboard . Blackboard is only compatible with full-featured versions of Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher or FireFox 3.0 or higher.
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Check that your browser's cache settings are set to "Compare the page to the cache - Each visit to the page".
Here's how to do that in Microsoft Internet Explorer on a PC:
In your browser window, click on "Tools" From the drop-down menu, select "Internet Options." Click on the "Settings" button next to "Temporary internet files" Make sure that the "Every time I visit the webpage" is highlighted and click "Ok".
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You will also want to make sure that you have enabled Java in each browser.
If you are using a Internet Explorer on a PC:
In your browser window, click on "Tools" in the menu bar. From the drop-down menu, select "Internet Options." Click on the "Advanced" tab. Scroll down to "Microsoft VM" Make sure that "JIT Compiler for virtual machine" has been checked and click "Ok."
If you are using a Internet Explorer on a Mac:
From your browser window, click on "Edit." From the drop-down menu, select "Preferences" Select "Java." from the list in the left-hand margin. Make sure that Java is enabled and click "Ok."
How can I check if my computer is properly configured to use the Blackboard Learning System?
It is highly recommended that you perform a browser check to see if your computer is properly configured to use the Blackboard Learning System.
Click here to perform a Complete Browser check
How can I increase my session time for an online course?
Follow this pdf to increase your online Session Time:Increase Online Session Time
How often should I log in to my online course?
Although instructors will have different requirements of participation for your course, your should log in to your course at least three to four times a week.
How do I register for an online course?
Just like classroom-based courses, for online courses at UFV you must first fill out an application form and pay the application fee.
If you are already a UFV student, remember that you must have the prerequisites for the courses you plan to register in. Students should always check the prerequisites for a course in the University Calendar.
What kind of internet connection do I need to take an online course?
Recommended minimum internet connection rate for taking an online course is 56k for a dial-up modem. High speed internet connections (Cable, ADSL) are a good choice as there are usually no long periods of waiting for your course web pages to load.
Make sure you purchase a connection plan with your ISP (Internet Service Provider) that offers the kind of hours you will be using for your online course.
What type of skills or experience do I need to be successful in online learning?
Before taking an online course you should be proficient in word processing, creating directories or folders, and copying files. You should also be familiar with copying and pasting text and switching between programs. Experience in surfing the internet and using electronic mail is also an asset.
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