UConn instructors can learn about secure and non-secure content within HuskyCT that can create mixed content.
What is mixed content?
Since HuskyCT allows users to publish content, there will always be a potential for non-secure items to be added. Most often, this occurs when embedded images, audio or video are linked to the course from non-SSL pages. When this happens, the page will then contain mixed content; that is, content which is both secure and non-secure.
Most modern browsers have built-in features which evaluate a page's level of security. When it meets their standard, the browser displays a padlock in the address bar. Otherwise, the browser may issue a mixed content warning. This warning is sometimes passive and not easily discernible by the learner. Additionally, some browsers may prevent the non-secure content items from displaying on the page.
Firefox, Chrome, Microsoft Edge and IE all block non-secure content by default. Safari is the only major browser which does not automatically block non-secure content.
How Does Mixed Content Impact Learner Experience?
Depending on the context, it may be obvious to the learner that content has been blocked.
Example 1
In this example, the learner clearly expects a video clip on the page. Unfortunately, our course builder embedded the video and mistakenly used “http://” rather than “https://” (setting is only visible to the course builder). As a result, our browser has automatically blocked the video.
Of course, blocked content won’t always be this obvious…
Example 2
Once again, our course builder embedded a video using a link to non-secure resources. The content has been blocked by the browser, yet the learner has no indication a video should be expected. For this reason, we highly recommend course builders always include a textual description for any embedded content in their course.
How do I Stop My Browser from Blocking Mixed Content?
Once our learner is aware content has been blocked, there are steps they can take to force their browser to display the hidden content.
To Prevent Mixed Content Blocking on Chrome
- To temporarily display mixed content, click the shield icon located in the address bar. When prompted, choose to allow loading of non-secure items.
To Prevent Mixed Content Blocking on Firefox
- To temporarily display mixed content, click the caution icon located in the address bar. When prompted, choose to allow loading of non-secure items.
To Prevent Mixed Content Blocking on Microsoft Internet Explorer (10+)
- To temporarily display mixed content, click the Show all content button, which is located at the bottom of the browser window.
To Prevent Mixed Content Blocking on Microsoft Edge
- To temporarily display mixed content, click the shield icon located in the address bar. When prompted, choose to allow loading of non-secure items.
To fully resolve the issue for all learners, course builders are strongly encouraged to update non-secure URLs to use the HTTPS protocol.
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