What is Blackboard?

Blackboard is the digital learning space you will use to access learning materials, submit assignments and attend online teaching sessions during your studies at Northumbria University.  

Courses at Northumbria University are composed of modules. You will study several modules during your course, with each module covering a different aspect of your chosen subject. Within Blackboard, each of the modules on your course has its own module site. You will find the information and resources you need to work on for that part of your course on each module site.   

How do I access and use Blackboard modules? 

To access your module sites, you will first log in to Blackboard

Blackboard modules are the online ‘building blocks’ of your course. You will work within these Blackboard modules throughout your time as a student here at Northumbria University.  

You can use your Blackboard modules to:

• Join virtual classrooms – using the Blackboard Collaborate tool, you will join online classes and teaching sessions. 
• Access your learning materials – a range of digital learning materials will be made available for you to study and work on from within the Blackboard module sites. 
• Get messages from your tutor – the tutor will send regular updates about essential aspects of the module.
• Submit assessments – the module site is where you will read the assessment brief and submit your assessment for marking.
• View the reading list – each module has a digital reading list. This list of recommended reading is accessed from within the module site. 
• Find sources of help and support – each module contains links to sources of help and support with issues such as IT, academic skills, or welfare. 

It is essential that you regularly check for updates in your Blackboard modules so that you organise your studies effectively.  

How do I use my module site? 

Once the module site has loaded, use the icons and links on the screen to access the different tools and resources. A typical Blackboard module will contain folders that provide information on the module itself, tutor contact details, learning materials and assessment details.

You can also access Blackboard Collaborate from your module, this provides a virtual classroom where live online teaching can take place.  

Where can I get further help?

IT Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

View IT Support contact details.