What is Blackboard?
The Blackboard platform is the official online learning management system supported by Shawnee State University for online and hybrid courses. Blackboard provides an online central location for instructors to communicate with students regarding course information, assignments, grades, etc.
Through Blackboard, students can electronically submit assignments, complete tests and quizzes, interact with other students through discussion boards, check grades entered by instructors, and view course documents such as files for assignments or the course syllabus.
What Technology Do I Need to Access Blackboard?
You will need to make sure that you have the proper technology for accessing Blackboard. You will need access to a computer or other device with broadband internet.
What Browser Should I Use to Access Blackboard?
We recommend using either Firefox or Chrome to access Blackboard. Other browsers will cause errors with uploading files, submitting assignments, etc.
Accessing Blackboard
To access and log into Blackboard, follow the SSO for Blackboard instructions.
*Note: If you have an active web page where you are logged into your email you MUST first log off the email account before attempting to sign into Blackboard. If you do not want to log off the email you do have the option to open a ‘New incognito window‘(Chrome) or ‘New InPrivate Window (Edge)
Video Tutorials for Faculty:
This Blackboard playlist provides training and assistance with course management and troubleshooting for instructors: Instructor Video Tutorials
Video Tutorials for Students:
This Blackboard playlist will help you get started in a series of short videos on many topics about Blackboard. This would be a great way to get oriented to your course(s) before classes begin. If you click play all, the videos will begin and run through the whole series: Student Video Tutorials
What is Blackboard Ally?
Blackboard Ally is a Blackboard tool that works within your courses to provide accessible course content in a format that works best for you. Accessible files include readable text for screen readers, pictures with captions, and easy-to-navigate content. This video will explain how to use Ally in your courses: Blackboard Ally Tutorial
What is Blackboard Collaborate?
In addition to Blackboard, SSU instructors may also use a Blackboard Tool called Collaborate. Collaborate is an online web conferencing tool and can be accessed from within your courses or through a link provided by your instructor. This video link will give you an overview of how to participate in a live meeting: Collaborate Tutorial
Is There a Blackboard App?
Blackboard offers a Free App in the App Store. The App is best used as a tool for staying organized. It is a good way to stay aware of class announcements from your instructor, keep track of due dates, etc. This video will introduce you to using the Blackboard app: Blackboard App Tutorial
How Do I Get Help with Blackboard?
If you have a question about your course content you should speak directly to your instructor.
For other troubleshooting support use the following contact methods:
For SSU ITS Blackboard Support M–F 9 am–5 pm:
Call: (740) 351-3682
Email: itservice@shawnee.edu
For password or login assistance:
Please use the IT Service Desk Web Form