Tools and Resources
Below are quick summaries of key programs and software your instructor may be using for Academic Continuity as well as who to contact if you need assistance.
The IT Help Desk at UCA exists to respond to your technology issues and requests. Common tools supported by the IT Help Desk include Brightspace, Respondus, Google, and more.
If you are experiencing issues search IT Help Desk knowledge base for trouble shooting solutions. In addition you can contact IT Help desk by submitting an IT Help Desk request ticket or calling (501)450-3107.
This section contains information about technology needed to participate in online courses at UCA. Additionally, you will also find up-to-date information regarding technical support.
D2L Brightspace (more commonly known as simply Brightspace) is a course management system used by UCA.
Logging In
Students can log in to Brightspace from myUCA or at learn.uca.edu. Your username is the first part of your UCA email and (in the email jdoe1@cub.uca.edu, the username is jdoe1).
Once in Brightspace, click the Course selector, and then click the course you wish to access.
If you need information on how to navigate Brightspace or having technical problems, there are several support options. First, check UCA’s Knowledge Base for information regarding your problem. Next, check out D2L Brightspace Community and if you are still experiencing problems, contact the UCA IT Help Desk (see above).
Brightspace Pulse Mobile App is iOS and Android configured to enable you to access much of your Brigtspace content from your mobile devices.
Respondus LockDown Browser is a secure browser for taking exams in Brightspace. It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during an assessment. If a Brightspace exam requires Respondus LockDown Browser, the exam will not be accessible with a standard web browser.
Step 1: Install Respondus LockDown Browser
Step 2: Review Student Quick Start Guide
Respondus Monitor
You may be required to use a webcam, in addition to LockDown Browser. (The webcam feature is sometimes referred to as “Respondus Monitor.”) Your computer must have a functioning webcam and microphone. Mac users must have Adobe Flash Player installed to use Safari, even if a different browser is normally used.
Step 1: Review the Respondus Monitor section of the Student Quick Start Guide
Step 2: Watch the following tutorial video:
The Online Essentials section contains information about technology needed to participate in online classes at UCA Online. Additionally, you will also find up-to-date information regarding technical support and university policies and procedures. Please read this page carefully especially if this is your first online class.
Multimedia Plugins
Your computer should have a sound and video card. However, to experience multimedia online, you may also need special software programs called plugins. Plugins allow your web browser to view or play certain types of files, such as some audio, video, or chat functions.
- Adobe Reader – Download and Install Adobe Reader. Please be mindful of the optional offers that come checked on the download page, as you do not need these optional offers for Adobe Reader to function correctly.
- Adobe Flash Player – Download and Install Adobe Flash Player. Please be mindful of the optional offers that come checked on the download page, as you do not need these optional offers for Adobe Reader to function correctly.
Java
Java is a programming language and software platform that is required for certain features of Blackboard to function properly. Some of the important features of Blackboard which use Java include assessments, surveys, discussions, file uploading, and downloading.
JRE versions 7 and 8 are the recommended versions for features that depend on it. JRE version 6 may work but could result in unexpected behavior. Oracle has acknowledged some security issues with JRE version 6.
To verify if you have Java installed on your PC click here.
Java is free to download. Get the latest version at java.com.
Software and Plugins
Multimedia or software packages and plugins will be required for your study or to access multimedia applications on the web in relation to your studies. Also, there is a list of optional software that may be of interest to you but may not be required. Please check your course syllabus for needed software and plugins.
UCA Email
All UCA students access their email through Google Apps for Education. For more information on Google Apps for Education, please visit https://uca.edu/go/googleapps.
