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Frequently Asked Questions Related to LiveOnline@Centra Technology

What is LiveOnline@UT/Centra?
What is the System Check?
What is Online@UT/Blackboard?
I forgot my password!
I can get to my LiveOnline@UT Schedule page, but the course event/playback I need isn't listed.
What do I need to attend an online class?
Where is my course syllabus and other requirements.
I want to learn more about Live-Online@UT classes, are there sample pages or instructions I can look at?
Who do I call if I have problems attending class?


What is LiveOnline@UT/Centra?
LiveOnline@UT is the UT-branded name for Centra software from Saba, Inc. The Centra software is used to deliver live, interactive classes via the Internet.

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What is the System Check?
The System Check is an easy way for you to determine if your computer is configured correctly to attend live online classes. Go to the LiveOnline@UT website to run the System Check. Click the System Check link (in the upper right portion of the screen) to run the System Check. This will test your browser settings, Internet connection, and audio and let you know if your computer is configured properly for online classes.

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What is Online@UT/Blackboard?
The Online@UT website provides access to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's online course management system, as well as related support documentation. We strive to be the starting point for any online course or organizational work required by faculty, students, and staff. Blackboard is the company that makes the course management software currently in use by Online@UT.

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I forgot my password!
If you forget your Centra password, go to the LiveOnline@UT website and select your program or department of study from the dropdown menu. Once at the login page for your department or program, click on the link "Forget your password?" You will need to enter the e-mail address that matches your Centra account (usually your utk.edu address).

If you forget your Online@UT password, you will need to go to the Online@UT website for instructions on retrieving your password.

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I can get to my LiveOnline@UT Schedule page, but the course event/playback I need isn't listed.

  • Check to make sure the event/playback is not listed on the Ongoing tab rather than the Upcoming tab which displays by default when you log in.
  • At the beginning of each semester there is a period of time (first week or so) when the roll sheets change daily. During this time there may be a delay between when you sign up and when your name is added to the server. This is also when students are dropped off rolls for non-payment and other reasons, and this too can cause a delay in your enrollment on the server. If you need assistance in verifying your enrollment, contact the registrar’s office.

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What do I need to attend an online class?
Click on Computer Requirements to learn what is needed to attend an LiveOnline/Centra class from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

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Where is my course syllabus and other assignments?
The course syllabus, announcements, and other outside-of-class information will normally be posted on your Online@UT course site. Go to the Online@UT website, login, and you will see a link to your course site.

In a few cases, your course site may not be on the Blackboard server. Contact your instructor for site location and login information.

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I want to learn more about Live-Online@UT classes, are there sample pages or instructions I can look at?
The LiveOnline@UT website provides information related to the software used to deliver your live class over the Internet. There is a Student Resources section with flash tutorials and contact information for technical support on this site.

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Who do I call if I have problems attending class?
The LiveOnline/Centra technical support team is available via telephone at (865) 974-3117 or toll free at 1-877-974-3117.

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Contact This Department

Department of Distance Education & Independent Study
Conference Center Building
600 Henley Street, Suite 208
Knoxville, TN 37996
Phone: (865) 974-5134
Toll Free: 1-800-670-8657
TDD: (865) 974-5078
Fax: (865) 974-4684
Email: disteducation@tennessee.edu