To ensure your computer is ready for online coursework, first run the Browser Check on this page and resolve any identified issues. Then, review the other pages in this section: Compatible Internet Browsers, Other Technical Requirements, and Software/Plug-In Requirements.
Check Your Browser for Compatibility
As you will be accessing WorldClassRoom (WCR) via the internet, your internet browser and setup are quite important. It is important to perform a browser check on any computer that you will use to access your course(s). The browser check tool inspects five settings that are critical to the operation of WCR: your internet browser, cookies, JavaScript, pop-up blockers, and Java.
Action Item: → Click here to check your browser for compatibility now.
Or, run the browser check at any time inside WorldClassRoom using the link in the top right corner of the screen.
Results of the Browser Check
When the check is complete, you will see one of these two icons appear next to the five identified areas:
Check Passed
No Action Needed
Check Failed
Action Required – see below for more information
Below we outline what is checked, how it affects your experience, and how to resolve any issues you may encounter.
Browser Check –This verifies the type and version of your internet browser and whether it is validated for use with WorldClassRoom.
Problems? If you fail this check, please refer to the list of compatible browsers here. You might be able to continue using your current browser; however, you may experience issues which cannot be resolved.
Cookies Check – The Cookie Check will determine if cookies are enabled in your browser. WCR uses a “cookie” to keep track of your current session. You must have cookies enabled so we can maintain your current state as you navigate through your course.
Problems? If you fail this check, go into your browser options/security settings and enable cookies.
JavaScript Check – The JavaScript check will ensure that JavaScript is enabled on your computer. Almost every part of WCR relies on JavaScript for the ability to generate interactive web pages. You must have JavaScript enabled to properly use WCR.
Problems? If you fail this check, go into your browser options/security settings and enable JavaScript.
Pop-Up Blocker Check – WorldClassRoom uses pop-up windows for several tools, such as discussions, course mail and announcements. If you use a browser or other program that prevents windows from popping up or opening, then you will not be able to view all of your course materials. You will need to configure your browser to allow WCR to open new pop-up windows.
Note: If you have successfully passed the browser check, there is still a chance that you may have issues with pop-up blockers. If you are using a plug-in such as Yahoo! Toolbar, Google Toolbar, or others provided by your Internet Service Provider, it may not have been detected through the browser checkup tool.
Problems? If you fail this check, go into your browser options/security settings and disable popup blocking all together or just for webster.blackboard.com.
Java ™ Check – The Java Check will determine the version of Java that is installed on your machine. Java is a piece of software that works with WorldClassRoom to enhance the interactivity of the course.
Note for Mac users on OS X 10.7: This release does not come with Java runtime preinstalled. You will need to download Java.
Problems? If you fail this check, follow the links in the browser checkup to install the latest version of Java, or download it now.
Note: Accept the Java Security Certificate
When the My Blackboard screen first appears your browser may request that you accept a Java security certificate. Select “yes” or “accept”. If you click any links or buttons in My Blackboard before the security certificate window is finished loading or before acceptance has been established, your session will end in error and you may be required to close the browser. You will then need to restart your browser and accept the security certificate.
Action Item: → Click here to check your browser for compatibility now.