JAVA Advisory for Bb Learn Users

Certain features in Blackboard Learn rely on Java to work. Oracle is expected to release a client-side Java update (Java Update 7u51) on Tuesday, January 14, that will negatively impact three Blackboard tools:  
(1) Lightweight Chat
(2) Virtual Classroom
(3) the ability to upload multiple files into Blackboard Learn course files.

This update contains security requirements that require changes to Blackboard Learn. Blackboard is currently making the necessary fixes and plans to release the fixes to SU around January 21.

What should you do in the meantime? 

• If you do not install this latest client-side update of Java (Java Update 7u51), you will not encounter issues.
• If you have already installed Java Update 7u51, you can roll back to a previous version of the client-side Java to restore use of those impacted items. If it is not, you can download the previous version.
• If you do not use the three Blackboard Learn tools listed, installing the client-side Java Update 7u51 should not have any negative impact on your user experience in Blackboard Learn.

If you use these three tools and have applied the update, please be advise you may have problems.  If you have additional questions please visit the Help Desk or submit an online help ticket at workorders.su.edu