Tools and software
We recommend the use of a limited number of tools for learning, teaching and assessment.
You may have access to additional or specialist software not listed here. Ask your school and see the software list from IT Services.
Recommended tools
Use these where possible. Support and training is available from DEO.
Available via Blackboard
- BlackboardBuild your course in this online learning environment offering an online space for learning activities and a range of tools for communication, collaboration, assessment, feedback, reflection and content management.
- Blackboard AllyMake your course more accessible.
- Class CollaborateRun and record live online sessions with interactive options like polls and quizzes.
- Re/PlayRecord, edit, publish and manage lecture videos, see analytics.
- TurnitinUse for submissions to get similarity reports comparing students' text submissions with other text sources, mark and give feedback.
- H5PA web-based tool that enables you to easily create interactive, mobile-friendly resources, which you can then include in your course.
- FeedbackFruitsDevelop assessment activities with peer review, group member evaluation or automated feedback.
Available outside Blackboard
- CamtasiaCapture your screen and audio, edit the video.
- MentimeterCreate and present online live or asynchronous polls, quizzes and word clouds.
- MS OfficeCreate materials, record lectures, ask students to produce resources individually or collaboratively. Support from IT Services.
- MS Teams for teachingVideo conferencing and collaboration tools. Technical support from IT Services.
- PadletCreate interactive and collaborative learning activities.
- Questionmark (QMP)Deliver and manage online formative, high-stakes summative assessment and examinations. Alternative to Blackboard tests.
- TurningPointCreate polls, quizzes and surveys, then deliver them online or in person, live or scheduled, and store the responses for analysis.
- XerteCreate – or ask students to create – interactive and accessible online learning materials containing text, images, media. Available to anyone with a University account.
Also available
These tools may not be free to use. Limited advice and support may be available from DEO.