You may need to download and install what is known as a "plug-in". A plug-in is a program that works in conjunction with your browser and handles specific types of (usually) media files that the browser alone cannot. Commonly used plug-ins have free downloadable versions.
In the case of Blackboard, you will also need to make sure you have Java installed on your system so that certain tools (such as Chat, Collaborate) work. You will also likely need Adobe Acrobat Reader during your course as many resources are in .pdf format.
Commonly Used Plug-ins
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Media Players
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Anti-Spyware Software
Some very reliable anti-spyware programs are offered free, while others can be used on a trial basis. The comprehensive Internet security suites available from McAfee and Norton have anti-spyware components built in.
- Ad-Aware (trial version) from Lavasoft
- Spybot - Search & Destroy (freeware)
- Spysweeper (trial version) from Webroot
- McAfee Internet Security Suite
- Mac Anti-Virus Tools for OS X
Other Browsers
A number of browsers interact well with Blackboard. Please check your browser compatibility here, or download a browser from the options below:
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