As a Concordia student, you have access to dedicated support for all your technology needs. Helpdesk is your go-to resource for technical assistance, offering help with hardware issues, network connectivity and account access.
Student Technology Requirements
Each of your courses will require some level of access to Blackboard and other online resources. In addition, courses may utilize webcams and other audio and visual connections for class participation.
What are the basic computer requirements, including for screen readers, needed to study in the Blackboard learning management system?
Operating Systems
Windows 7 or higher OR Mac OSX 10.12 or higher
*While Chromebooks and iPads will support most functionality in Blackboard, they will not support other critical functions that may be required for courses. We strongly discourage relying upon a Chromebook or an iPad to meet all course requirements and to be successful in your courses.
Mobile Operating System Native App Support
iOS 11 and newer OR Android 5 and newer
Computer System Requirements:
Use a computer 3 years old or newer
4GB of RAM (8 GB of RAM or more is highly recommended)
2GHz processor
20 GB of available hard-drive space
What internet speed is required for remote access?
A strong broadband/high speed connection with a minimum of 10 mbps. If multiple users are on the same network a larger bandwidth will be necessary. A direct connection to your router will provide a faster and more reliable connection than wifi.
Will I need a webcam and headset or earbuds?
Yes, some classes at Concordia will require students to interact with the professor and fellow students through live video — both a webcam (built-in or external) and headset or earbuds will be required. This is mainly to help develop a learning community based upon relationships, but also to facilitate virtual office hours for faculty and students.
What internet browsers can be used to study in Blackboard?
We recommend using the latest versions of Chrome or Firefox browsers when using the Blackboard Learn or Blackboard Collaborate applications. We do not recommend using Safari or Microsoft Edge, and Microsoft Internet Explorer is no longer a supported browser. In the event you are unable to access content in one browser, the quickest solution is often to try accessing it in a different browser. Note that the pop-up blockers on your browser must be disabled for Blackboard Learn to function properly. Please see the Blackboard Guide on browser support for details and version recommendations. You can access the Blackboard Browser Checker to run a check on the current browser you are using.
Will Blackboard work on my mobile device?
The current version of the Blackboard app is available for iOS and Android mobile devices. The app is designed for students to view content and participate in courses. Some Blackboard functions are not accessible through the app. Blackboard pages can also be accessed in any browser on the mobile device, but some Blackboard functions are not supported on mobile devices.