Blackboard Mobile App Launches

The Blackboard Mobile application (Blackboard app) provides a more user-friendly way of accessing Course Resources (Blackboard) on any internet connected mobile device. Tutors can communicate course updates, and students can access program/module information at any time or location of their choosing.

However, it should be made clear to students that while there are Blackboard apps available for a range of mobile devices, the app cannot be used to totally replace a PC or Mac. A small percentage of course content will not be available through the app.

It should also be noted that the app is not recommended as a way for academics to create or add content. Although it is possible, in a limited way, you will probably find it far more frustrating than useful.

Where to get the app

The app is available on the following platforms:

• Android: Search Google Play for "Blackboard Mobile Learn"
• iPhone/iPod/iPad: Search the App store for "Blackboard Mobile Learn"
• Blackberry: Search the Blackberry App World for "Blackboard Mobile Learn"

What is available on all platforms (Android, Apple, Blackberry)

The main functions provided by the app are:

• App Dashboard (provides an overview of all recent changes in modules that you are attached to)
• Announcements
• Discussion board ^*
• Blogs ^* 
• Blackboard Journals ^* 
• Tasks^

^* Adding and viewing posts/ op tion to comment

^ Change status of tasks

Works well with additional apps

There are some types of content that the app will not be able to display itself. The Blackboard Mobile app will allow you to find and download the items listed below, but you will need to have another app installed to actually view them.

Your mobile device may already have something suitable installed (e.g. a web browser such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari etc, or media player), although the quality will vary between apps and devices. See the section on Supporting Apps for more information.

• PDF in app
• Word document in app
• PowerPoint in app
• Excel In app
• MP4 Video in app
• JPEG, GIF and PNG (image formats) in app or browser depending on platform
• Web links in browser
• Web package (Wimba) in browser

App use not recommended

There are some things that the app is not suitable for. Either it simply does not work, or it is strongly recommended against due to the poor experience that students would have. In these instances access Course Resources using PC/Mac.

• Turnitin (Tell your students not to use the app to submit their work)
• Summative On Line Tests (Tell your students not to attempt a test from a mobile device if the marks contribute to their overall mark)
• Uploading a file (You should not attempt to add course content from a mobile device)
• Reading lists and libraray resources
• Some image and video formats (BMP + WMV)

Further information

http://www.blackboard.com/platforms/mobile/products/mobile-learn.aspx

Not all of the information on the American site applies to the University of Derby. For example there is no charge to our students for using the app.