Using Lightweight Chat
The Lightweight Chat tool allows class participants to hold synchronous conversations in a chat window (shown below) similar to instant messaging. Use the View button in the upper left corner to split the screen to view private messages. Messages are typed in the small box at the bottom of the screen. Once sent, all participants view messages in the larger white box.
To join a chat session, follow these steps:
- Click here to view an online tutorial on using the Lightweight Chat tool. Although the tutorial was created for an earlier version of Blackboard, the principles have remained the same.
- Install the Java Applet (if you have never participated in a chat session).
- Click Communication > Collaboration.
- Click Join to enter either a Lightweight Chat or Lecture Hall synchronous discussion.
Note: In earlier versions of Blackboard, archiving was turned on automatically. In this version of Blackboard the instructor must activate archiving to save the chat session.
In group chats, students have the option to turn archiving on by clicking the buttons in the upper left of the screen. If you are interested in using this tool in your group space, contact your instructor and ask that Collaboration Tools are included when your group is created.
