Technical Requirements Vista Tutorials
Special Topics
Java Rollback File Upload Office 2007 issues
Java Issues
If you are experiencing problems in your Pilot Course relating to the most recent Java update, click here for information on resolving these issues.
Technical Requirements: Blackboard Vista
The best way to assure your computer is configured correctly is to use the browser check (top right corner) on the World Classroom. This will ensure that your browser is configured properly for use with Blackboard Vista. For more information about these requirements, please see the information below.
Browser Requirements
Once you have determined your browser version, you can then check to see that your browser is supported for use with Blackboard Vista.
Categories of Blackboard Vista browser support:- Validated: These browsers have been tested extensively and have been validated for use with Blackboard Vista.
- Unsupported: These browser are known to have significant issues in operation with Blackboard Vista and are not supported for use with Blackboard Vista.
- Browsers not listed: Browsers not shown on this table have not been tested. They may or may not work with Blackboard Vista. It is strongly recommended that you use a Validated browser.
Java plug-in
Blackboard Vista depends heavily on the Sun Java browser plug-in. Aside from having the most recent version, some issues may arise from having multiple older versions of the plug-in installed. Please pay special attention, when using the browser check tool in the World Classroom to the Java version it detects. If you are encountering problems even after passing the browser check, you may need to uninstall the older versions of the plugin.
If problems persist after removing the older versions, please contact the Help Desk.
Pop-up Blocker Issues
Blackboard Vista uses pop-up windows for several tools, such as discussions and e-mails. If you use a program that prevents windows from popping up or opening, then you will not be successful using Blackboard Vista tools. You will need to configure your program to allow Blackboard Vista to open new pop-up windows. If you need assistance, please refer to the manual that came with your program or call the Webster Help Desk at 1-866-435-7270.
Virus Protection
Currently, Blackboard Vista doesn't offer virus protection for anyone. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that any attachments and/or files that you send through Blackboard Vista, open, or download are scanned for viruses.
Additional Software
Microsoft Office
The basic Office package, which includes Word, Excel and Powerpoint, is a required tool for online courses.
- Windows: version 2002 or higher
- Macintosh: version 2001 or higher
Webster faculty and students can purchase Microsoft operating system and software at low cost. For full details and to purchase software, please go to www.webster.edu/technology/microsoft
Important: There has been a recent issue revolving around backward compatibility and Office 2007 with previous versions. The newest version of Office saves files into the .docx format. If you encounter problems when trying to open these documents, follow this link to download Microsft's compatibility filter.
Browser Plugins
Some Blackboard Vista courses use browser plug-ins. To view portions of these sites, you may need one or more of the plug-ins below. Browsers will generally automatically download any plug-in required by a particular page. Click on an image below to download that plug-in.
Some Blackboard Vista courses use video or audio using:
Some Blackboard Vista courses offer enhanced interaction and animation using:
Some course content requires Adobe Acrobat to view and print.
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The materials on Webster University's WorldClassRoom online and web-enhanced course sites are only for the use of students enrolled in such courses for purposes associated with the courses and may not be retained or further disseminated.