Using Unilearn
Unilearn is the umbrella term for the integrated system and tools which support USW learning and teaching activities through technology.
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You will use these tools for synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (self-paced) learning. If you are a returning student, you may already be familiar with many of these tools, but please note that there are some changes this year, so you should still read the information below.
The Unilearn tools you will use include the following:
- Blackboard - the University's VLE (Virtual Learning Environment);
- Panopto - a video/audio tool used for recording a range of learning and teaching
related activities; - Vevox - an interactive tool which will enable you to share your opinions, ask questions and provide feedback as part of your learning;
- Tools for submitting your assessments online;
- Tools to support inclusion and accessibility; and
- For real time tutorials and lectures, the main tool you will be using is Microsoft Teams, the university's collaboration and communication tool for instant messaging, meetings and synchronous learning sessions. Teams is part of Office 365, so you will be able to use this using your student account. Your IT Induction will have already introduced you to Office 365.
Activities
Your module leaders will explain which of these tools you will be using for each module. In this section, you will find out where to find the tools you'll need to support your learning. There are some short activities designed to introduce you to the key features and where to find them.
Blackboard is the system the University uses to support all online learning. You will use it to access your learning materials, information about your course and assessments, as well as other tools you will need to use.
The Getting Started with Blackboard page includes several guides that will help you to understand how to use Blackboard. It includes information to help you locate the modules you are enrolled on.
NB - you may not see all the information for your modules until you have fully enrolled. If you can't see your course and/or modules in Blackboard once you have enrolled, please contact your course leader or the Advice Zone.
Throughout your course, you will need to use a range of tools to help you to learn. Most of these are accessible via Blackboard, but it will be worth familiarising yourself with the most common tools you'll be using. These are listed on the relevant IT pages: Using Unilearn. Make sure you bookmark this page so that you can return to it when you need it. If you need help with anything, then your course or module leader can advise you.
The University has a number of tools and resources that can help your learning. You may, for example, prefer content to be available in different formats, such as to organise your planning using a mind map, or need more specific equipment such as a screen reader. Many of these are available to students free of charge. Information about what is available is on UniLife by accessing Assistive Technologies. In Blackboard, you can also use the tool called Ally to download content and documents in an alternative format.
If you use a mobile device, there is an app available which will allow you to use Microsoft Teams on your mobile device. This app is available on iOS/iPadOS and Android.
For several of the tools you may be using, it is possible to add a profile picture, which can be used as an avatar to represent yourself. This can be especially useful for real-time tutorials and lectures, to help you feel more comfortable participating online and to help others recognise you.
Some lecturers/tutors may encourage you to switch your camera on during real-time tutorials and lectures.
"Seeing others’ faces and expressions is a key component of human communication, thus in the context of an online learning community, it helps build connection and enhance inclusion, benefitting both teachers and learners."
However, you are not required to switch your video camera on. It can cause issues, such as technical problems or accessibility issues, and your lecturer/tutor will understand if you don't want to.
When you take part in online learning, it is important to remember to use language and behaviour that are appropriate and accessible. We often refer to this as ‘Netiquette’. Your module leaders will set out their specific expectations for communication, but we suggest you also read our general guidelines for Online Etiquette.