Frequently Asked Questions

These questions will relate to your functionality within the Blackboard VISTA learning management system.  For specific questions regarding your course, please contact your instructor.  Also, please contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@dixie.edu or phone at 435.652-7951

When I try to upload a file, such as an assignment, into Blackboard, I can't find "My Computer" link in the Get Files window.

Often, when you log on to Blackboard, you will see a popup window referencing a Java Security Certificate.  You should click "Run" not cancel when this popup window presents itself.  Certain JAVA components in Blackboard will not work without that script loading with Blackboard.  If you find yourself in this situation, you will have to log off of Blackboard totally, then log in again make sure to click on the "Run" option when presented.

I'm have uploaded a file that my instructor says he/she can't open.  What's wrong?  It has an .lnk extension. 

The extension at the end of every file links it to a specific program which allows viewing or editing of the file on the computer of the person receiving your attached file.  For example, Word documents have a .doc or a .docx extension.  Actually a .lnk extension is a link only to a shortcut on the computer and does not contain file content unless you are on the computer where the file is stored and can be accessed using the shortcut.  When you save a file, the file type is automatically assigned based on the program you are using to create the document.  When uploading the document and "browse" for the file to upload, make sure you are in the right directory where the file is stored.  Look for the file name that includes the proper extension.  You will also see an icon that represents the icon with which it is associated.

 When I click on Mail, I can't type in the address of my instructor.  Why not.

When using the Mail tool in Blackboard, you are in an exclusive email distribution group that includes only your fellow students and instructors and it is enclosed within your course in Blackboard.  To send a message, after choosing the Create Message link, click on "Browse for Recipients."  Click on "All Instructors" to send to your instructor.  You may also click on "All Students" if you are emailing your fellow students.  You may also click next to a specific name to send to selected members of the course.  Next, scroll to the bottom of the list and click on Save.  You will be returned to the message window where you will your recipients now listed.