A man working at a laptop in a home study

Online learning tools to support your in-person studies

Welcome back!

The University of West London has designed a model of learning called UWLFlex that enables us to accommodate learning online and learning on campus. We support student learning outside of in-person sessions, with access to online resources, activities, and opportunities to revisit and review module content. Our online environment offers a variety of tools including Blackboard Ultra and Collaborate, and enables students to personalise their learning experience every step of the way.

With UWLFlex, you will be able to access links to direct support from Student Services, the Library, and the Students’ Union. You will also find a link to a ‘Studying Online’ Blackboard module, and selected resources from Macmillan Publishers and LinkedIn Learning which will help you with your academic studies, and with practicing the skills you need to be a successful learner.

During this time, it’s important to remember: 

  1. Check your UWL emails regularly 
  2. Get in touch if you have any questions or concerns 
  3. Look after yourself and those around you 

FAQs

Staying safe online

We are spending more time than ever online. It’s vital to stay connected, but just as important to stay safe. Here are some ways to do that.

Ensure you follow the Student Code of Conduct and treat others with kindness and respect.

  • How can I keep my applications and devices secure?

    • Check the privacy settings in the apps you use
    • Use strong, unique passwords, and never share them with anyone
    • Turn on two-factor authentication when it is available
    • Set your devices to automatically download security updates

  • How can I make video calls safely?

    • Be aware of what is visible and audible in the background when on a call. Consider blurring the background and muting the mike when not speaking.  
    • The official UWL apps like Blackboard Connect and Microsoft 365 are end-to-end encrypted, password protected, private and safe. Take extra care if using other video calling apps to keep in touch with family and friends – they may not be as secure.

  • How can I protect myself against fraud?

    Phishers and other online criminals take advantage of our natural concerns to try and scam us. Watch out for:

    • Unsolicited or unexpected messages
    • Messages that just don’t feel right, perhaps because of spelling, grammar or tone
    • Messages missing information like your name of account numbers that a genuine sender would know
    • Links and email address that don’t match who the sender claims to be
    • Messages demanding you act immediately

  • How can I work safely?

    • Take a break from time to time – get away from the screen when you can and do something else
    • Follow the guidance to create a safe workspace

  • How can I raise concerns?

    • Just like you would on campus, if you see anything in an online lesson or on a video call that makes you uncomfortable raise it with your lecturer. If you are still concerned you can report it – see guidance on dealing with unacceptable behaviour.

  • How can I make sure what I read is true?

    • Make sure you are properly informed– some of what you read may be fake news so make sure you are alert to this
    • Be aware of groups who are pushing conspiracy theories or trying to befriend you. If you are concerned about this contact studentwelfare@uwl.ac.uk

Blackboard

The way you log-in to Blackboard has changed. To deliver improved security, you may now be asked to register a mobile phone and/or an alternative email address. 

  • Logging in

    1. Visit Blackboard 

    2. Sign in using your username@student.uwl.ac.uk (replacing username with your student number such as 10066822@student.uwl.ac.uk ), followed by your usual UWL password. 

    3. Access your email and OneDrive via Office365, by visiting the Office portal.  

    You should now be able to access Blackboard and your UWL email. If you are having difficulty accessing your account, try clearing your web browser’s cache, cookies and history to remove old data. 

    If you need any assistance, please contact the IT Service Desk, by calling 0300 111 4895 or emailing itservices@uwl.ac.uk, and our dedicated team will do their best to support you. Please use these new contact details, rather than any you may have used previously. 

  • What you can expect using Blackboard

    • Weekly online learning material and activities
    • regular announcements from an academic
    • a fresh homepage with additional functionality (Blackboard Ultra homepage)
    • a 'Studying Online' course
    • clear instruction and access to your assessments
    • access to LinkedIn Learning
    • a mobile app that enables you to access all of your learning everywhere and at any time - download the free app from Google Play or from the Apple App Store. 

    You can also expect the following addition support: 

    • regular updates by email 
    • access to support from student services, IT, Academic support and SU Advice Service. 

  • What to do when you receive your Blackboard login

    Using Blackboard Ultra, you will be able to access resources such as LinkedIn Learning, Library pages, Macmillan resources and student support information.

    On your first day you should:

    • Logon to Blackboard
    • Access the Library page
    • Identify your modules
    • Look out for any announcements via your activity stream and emails

  • What we expect you to do when using Blackboard

    • Log onto Blackboard everyday
    • Complete the 'Studying Online' module
    • Complete your online activities within the timeframe indicated by your lecturers
    • Manage your own activity stream on Blackboard
    • Interact on discussion forums as indicated by your lecturers
    • Check your module assessment pages. This is where we will provide further guidance around any alternative assessments - be clear that you fully understand what to do, and when to do it

Assessment and exams

Your Course Leader should have updated Blackboard to reflect changes to your assessment. They will also contact you to confirm deadline dates and provide any other relevant information. 

Arrangements for assessment and exams 

You will normally submit your assessments online.  Where necessary, practical assessments will be timetabled on site. Examinations will be scheduled as alternative online assessments or onsite exams, as appropriate.

Making the most of the Library

A view of the Paul Hamlyn Library

How to make the most of the Library

Our online chat service operates 24/7 and you can also use a range of online materials to support your studies.

Library support

Accessing apps from home

We want to make sure you get the best IT and online support that we can give you as we all work online. And we are delighted to be able to let you know about the wide range of powerful apps available for you to access from home.

If you need help in accessing any of these applications or if you have any other IT-related problem, get in touch with the IT Service Desk.

We are here to help from 8:00 AM to midnight, seven days a week. Just call 0300 111 4895 or email ITServiceDesk@uwl.ac.uk.

Keep a lookout because we will be posting more tips and tricks to help you make the most of our services when you're learning online.

LinkedIn Learning

Don’t forget, if you want to learn how to do something in an app or start to use a new one (maybe create a video?), there are lots of online tutorials available to you through our subscription to LinkedIn Learning. Just visit LinkedIn Learning and login with your IT User Account.

Do more with your smartphone 

You don't always need a full PC or Mac desktop or laptop to access many of our services. You can use a modern smartphone or tablet and in many cases one running over a mobile or 4G connection. If you have a laptop and no Wi-Fi, you might be able to tether a connection from your mobile phone. You can also connect a Bluetooth keyboard to your phone to make it easier to type on. 

Get logged into Blackboard using the Blackboard Learn mobile app. Simply search for 'Blackboard' on the App Store or the Google Play store. 

How to access desktop apps from home

Here is how to access desktop apps for free, including Microsoft Office applications.

A woman celebrating in front of her laptop

  • Access UWL desktop apps from home

    We have made as many of the apps available on the UWL PC desktop for you to use access from your own computer. You will need a Windows PC or laptop for these (Mac support will be coming in the future).

    Simply visit AppsAnywhere and login with your UWL Student IT User Account and regular password.

    Find out more about accessing desktop apps.

  • Microsoft Office

    Our subscription to Microsoft Office 365 gives you full access to up to five copies of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, OneDrive and Teams. There are versions available for all devices including Mac and mobile. Again, visit the App Store or Google Play store and search for “Office 365” to download your copies. You will need to log in with your usual UWL IT User Account and password to activate your copy.

Key contacts

Student support

Accessing student support services

Our student services remain open and are here to support you. If you have any questions or need support please contact the Student Services helpdesk on: 

Looking after yourself

Some tips for staying healthy during your studies.

Beech leaves