If you experience problems with tools or content in WebVista, first check your browser and settings. Many problems are due to Web browsers that do not support certain WebVista tools, or settings in the browser preferences that cause tools to fail or malfunction.
Note: Many browser problems are caused by ad-blocking software. Software that disables pop-up windows and other Javascript functions also disables WebVista tools. If you are running ad-blocking software or Internet Security bundles, please disable the software. See this page on pop-up blockers and WebVista for more information.
If you have broken links, missing content, or cannot access a tool or content, you should tell your instructor.
Some common problems are listed below.
A Quiz Doesn't Work Properly
- If the quiz is not linked, the instructor for the class has not made the quiz available in WebVista. If you need to take the quiz and it is not available, communicate with your instructor.
- If the quiz flashes, check your browser version. This is particularly associated with the 4.08 version of Netscape.
- If the quiz doesn't grade properly, make sure you (a) save each answer after you answer it, (b) submit the quiz when you complete it, and (c) click view results. Note your answers on paper while you take the quiz to check your intended answers against those recorded by WebVista's.
- Be patient. Quizzes may be slow at peak times, especially if several students are taking the quiz at the same time.
- If you are sure you are doing everything correctly, call the Technology Helpline for the Twin Cities campus at (612) 301-HELP (1-HELP on campus). Write down the exact error message and be prepared to give detailsto the person who assists you. Be sure to give the name of the class, the quiz name, and any questions that are specfically problematic or innacurate.
E-Mail or Discussions Are Slow or Don't Work
- The E-Mail and Discussion tools tend to slow down when they have more than 1,000 messages stored. Talk to your instructor about removing duplicates and archiving old messages. These can be compiled and saved as text files and made available for reference, while allowing the tools to work more efficiently.
- Be patient. Often when sending e-mail to several people, it may take a while to send. WebVista will usually finish in less than 10-15 minutes.
- If you are trying to submit a very long discussion posting or e-mail, you may exceed the maximum number of characters a Web form can handle. Try sending the message in multiple parts.
- If you have tried these solutions and still have problems, call the Technology Helpline for the Twin Cities campus at (612) 301-HELP (1-HELP on campus). Write down the exact error message and be prepared to give details to the person who assists you.
Whiteboard or Chats Don't Work
- The Whiteboard and Chat tools use Java. Make sure you are using a browser that supports Java and that you have Java enabled.
- Make sure you allow the Java applet to load before beginning to use the Whiteboard.
- The Whiteboard may fail to start in Internet Explorer for the Macintosh. Try using a recommended version of Netscape, if at all possible.
- Make sure you are not behind a firewall that may prevent you from participating in online chats. This is possible if you are accessing the course site from your job or a public library or other location that may prohibit certain Internet activities. Contact your network administrator if you aren't sure.
Links Don't Work or Pages Don't Load
- If you receive a"Page Not Found" error and are using Internet Explorer, try selecting the Refresh Page option or (if possible) use a supported version of Netscape.
- Be patient. Some pages with large graphics or links to Web sites outside of the University may take a long time to load, especially over a phone modem.
- If a link doesn't work or content is missing, tell your instructor.
I Can't View My Grades
- Make sure you have a My Grades tool in your course site. This has to be added to your WebVista site by the instructor.
- Make sure the instructor has (a) graded the quiz, if it includes essay questions that do not grade automatically, and (b) has released the grades to students. The instructor can contact WebVista support for assistance if there are any problems.
I Can't Use the Equation Editor
- Make sure you are using a supported operating system (OS). The Equation Editor only works for Windows OS.
- Slow performance in Netscape may be corrected by downloading a plug in. See the Equation Editor page for more information.