Online learning can occur in many different environments, including undergraduate classes, graduate classes, and workplace trainings. Shifting content from face-to-face instruction to online platforms can be challenging, particularly when it comes to navigating new technology. These resources are meant to guide faculty and staff through the transition to virtual learning by providing training on the learning tools available at UW-Madison. There are also resources to supply ongoing support and aid in technology troubleshooting. Be sure to also check out our Online Learning Best Practices page for tips on the practical application of these tools.
Just In Time
These Just In Time resources are ideal if you only have a couple of minutes to start finding out about Online Learning Tools.
Blackboard Collaborate with the Ultra Experience User Interface Tour
Source: Blackboard Inc.
From the creators of Blackboard, this video gives a quick tour of the important features and controls in the Blackboard Collaborate Ultra user interface.
Additional Resources:
Learn how to create breakout groups in Blackboard Collaborate Ultra to facilitate small group discussion.
This video provides a quick orientation of the left-hand navigation panel of Microsoft Teams.
A short guide to both joining and hosting Webex Meetings.
How to join Google Hangouts Meet from various devices.
An overview of the functions that set Adobe Connect apart from other web-conferencing software.
Deeper Dive
If you have more time to invest, these Deeper Dive resources are longer and/or more in depth so you can gain a deeper understanding of Online Learning Tools.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
UW-Madison Knowledgebase Remote Working and Learning - Tools to Access Campus Resources Remotely (Link)
Remote Working and Learning – Tools to Access Campus Resources Remotely
From the UW-Madison Knowledgebase, this page provides a list of resources to secure your remote connection as well as tools to work with students and peers remotely.
Learn@UW - Which should I use? Blackboard Collaborate Ultra, Google Hangouts Meet, Webex Meetings, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Connect (Link)
UW-Madison provides access to a number of web conferencing tools for faculty, staff and students. Five of these tools include Blackboard Collaborate Ultra, Google Hangouts Meet, Cisco Webex Meetings, Microsoft Teams and Adobe Connect. This document explains and compares the features of each platform.
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra- Overview (Link)
Blackboard Collaborate Ultra- Overview
Comprehensive resource page for Blackboard Collaborate Ultra and its application at UW-Madison. Includes links to information about getting started, creating and editing sessions, accessibility, managing participants, and best practices, among other things.
Webex Meetings: Getting Started (Link)
Webex Meetings: Getting Started
Everything you need to know about Webex meetings for online learning and remote work. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for scheduling a meeting, using the software, and recording content. It also provides links to training sessions.
Microsoft Teams Video Training (Video)
Microsoft Teams Video Training
Microsoft’s guide to using Microsoft Teams. A comprehensive resource that covers topics from setting up and customizing your team to exploring apps and tools.
UW-Madison G Suite- Getting Started with Google Hangouts Meet (Link)
UW-Madison G Suite- Getting Started with Google Hangouts Meet
This guide explains how to access Google Meet with NetID credentials. It also provides resources for learning the basics and collaborating as well as training videos and cheat sheets.
Adobe Connect - Product Overview and License Information (Link)
Adobe Connect – Product Overview and License Information
This page describes the features of Adobe Connect and explains how to obtain a license to use the software. In order to use this product, you must purchase a license. Adobe connect enables web meetings, virtual classes, presentations and group collaboration.
Canvas - Overview (Link)
This page provides resources for faculty and staff describing how to use Canvas. It includes guidance for both credit-based and non-credit courses. Be sure to check out the Support and Training link on this page.
Kaltura - Overview (Link)
Kaltura MediaSpace is a platform to host and deliver educational material. This site provides everything you need to know about creating videos, uploading files and integrating material with Canvas.
Remote Access to Library Resources (Links)
Library-Remote Access to Library Resources
Through screen captures and explanations, this site provides answers to frequently encountered problems when trying to access library resources remotely. It is important to note that even users connected vis WiscVPN still need to login via EZProxy to access resources.
COVID-19: Special Access to Online Resources
A list of books, journals and databases that are temporarily available at Ebling Library as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additional Online Tools (Links)
These tools are also options for remote conferencing, however as a result of FERPA and HIPPA, they are not recommended for instruction at UW-Madison. Other institutions or projects outside of UW-Madison’s digital environment may require you to use some of these platforms or tools.
From the Zoom help center, this collection of training videos shows you everything you need to know about Zoom Meetings and Webinars. Be sure to check out the scheduling a meeting video.
Microsoft’s guide to using Skype. A comprehensive resource covering topics from getting started and calling to troubleshooting.
Getting Started Guide-Blue Jeans Meeting
This guide provides step-by-step instructions with screenshots to explain account settings, scheduling meetings, joining meetings and managing meetings.