eLearning Space Support

Compatible Browsers and Software

The University of Wollongong eLearning Space is driven by Blackboard Vista 8. This can be accessed from anywhere in the world using a web browser on a computer connected to the Internet. If you wish to access your eLearning Space from your own computer and/or from an off-campus location, you should first make sure you have a compatible browser and software. Click here now to check your browser compatibility.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Blackboard advise that the following browsers have been validated for use with this version:

Validated: These browsers have been tested extensively and have been validated for use with your eLearning Space.
Unsupported: These browsers are known to have significant issues in operation with your eLearning Space and are not supported.
Browsers not listed: Browsers not shown on this table have not been tested. They may or may not work. It is strongly recommended that you use a Validated browser.

Browsers for Windows

eLearning Space Version	Browsers	Browser Versions
eLearning Space Version	Browsers	Validated	Unsupported
Blackboard 8.0.3
	Microsoft IE	6 (Windows XP only), 7, 8	5
	Firefox	2.0, 3.0	1.0, 1.5

Browsers for Mac

eLearning Space Version	Browsers	Browser Versions
eLearning Space Version	Browsers	Validated	Unsupported
Blackboard 8.0.3
	Firefox	2.0, 3.0	1.0, 1.5
	Safari	3.x	1.x

Java Versions

Typical java-related problems with your eLearning Space, include problems with or computer errors/crashes when trying to:

1. Upload or download files from the File Manager
2. Attach documents to discussion postings or assignments
3. Use the html editor, equation editor or Chat/Whiteboard tool

Recommended solution
If you experience any of these issues, we recommend that you update to version J2SE 5.0 of Java.

The only exception to this is for Staff Kronos users, as Kronos has particular Java requirements.

For staff users please call X3002 (Managed Desktop clients only) or your local IT support staff to arrange the upgrade.

Note: Blackboard advises that the following ranges of Java are supported for use with eLearning Space (Blackboard Vista 8):

J2SE 1.4.2 (1.4.2_06 minimum)
J2SE 1.4.3
J2SE 5.0 (excluding 1.5.0_02)
Java SE 6

However, due to the complexities of java and how it interacts with Browsers some users may still experience difficulties, hence the recommendation to move to J2SE 5.0 if you experience problems.

Additional Software for PCs

The following plug-ins may be necessary if movies and animations have been used as part of your online subject. Your lecturer will advise if these plug-ins are necessary.