Common Browser Issues

The following information may help you troubleshoot some of the more common browser-related problems that you may encounter while working inside of Canvas.

Make sure that cookies from third parties are allowed.

Third party cookies are allowed by default on all supported browsers. If you experience problems staying logged in to Blackboard, please check your browser settings to make sure you allow third party cookies. For more information on enabling cookies, please select your current web browser:

Make sure that JavaScript is enabled in the browser.

JavaScript is enabled by default in all supported browsers. JavaScript is a type of programming language used to provide immediate feedback to users via the browser. Much of the Canvas system relies on JavaScript to generate interactive web pages. For more information on enabling JavaScript on your machine, please select your current web browser:

Pop-Up Blockers

Pop-up blockers work in the background while you browse the Internet. When they detect a pop-up window that may be an unwanted advertisement, they automatically close the window. This can prevent Canvas from performing properly.

While using Canvas, if you are unable to view discussion postings, quiz windows, and download links, then you need to disable pop-up blocking for your Canvas browser. For more information about turning off pop-up blocker on your machine, please select your current web browser:

Internet History and Cache

Your Internet browser keeps a record of all the websites you visit in its History. Your Internet cache acts as a roadmap for all the web sites you visit by storing copies of these sites locally on your computer. Because this site information is stored locally, web sites load faster.

Sometimes, this stored data can create problems for Canvas users trying to login to the system. If you are experiencing “Session Already Running” errors or are unable to view certain web content, try clearing your Internet history and/or cache. For more information on clearing your Internet history and cache, please select your current web browser:

Important Note:

For Internet Explorer users, do not select the Preserve Favorites website data check box if you have the Methodist University Blackboard website saved as a Favorite on your computer.

Java

Java is a programming language and software platform that is required for certain features of Canvas to function properly. Some of the important features of Canvas which use Java include:

  • File uploading and downloading
  • Taking assessments and surveys
  • The Rich Text Editor found in Discussion, Assessments, the Assignment file upload, etc.