How do I open FLV video files from Schoology?

<UPDATE: Flash was discontinued 01/01/21 and this post is no longer relevant.>

Unfortunately Schoology's built-in video recording feature still uses Adobe Flash, and Flash files have become difficult to play on Chromebooks. Teachers at MMU will discontinue this method of recording as we move into Distance Learning, however there may be some messages that are still recorded as FLV files.

Before following the steps below, check for the "View" link to the right of the video file link. The link will download the file but that is not necessary if "View" is available


If there are small green arrows in place of "View," then the video is still being processed. Processing times vary widely, but if you need to see the video immediately or processing has taken longer than 30 minutes:

1. Save the FLV file to Downloads
2. Install the VLC Player app.
3. Right-click on the file in Downloads and choose Open With --> VLC Player
4. The weird thing about VLC is that it doesn't open files, it opens folders, so when it opens you need to select the Downloads folder in the left sidebar, then it will show you previews of any video files in Downloads.
5. Double-click your file to play it