About Blackboard
What is Blackboard?
Blackboard is a Web-based environment that provides an online course management system to help develop Web-based learning contexts.
Web browsers are used the interface for both course instructors and students. Since Blackboard utilizes the World Wide Web, it is platform independent and can be used by a variety of hardware and software types. This allows courses to be developed and modified quickly, making changes available to students immediately.
Blackboard uses a set of web tools to help organize and make available course materials.
Why use Blackboard?
There are several reasons for using Blackboard:
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Secure environment: Blackboard is password protected, keeping your material and student information confidential.
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Platform independent: Since Blackboard is Web-based, users do not have to purchase special equipment or software to participate in a course. If you can access the Web, you can access a Blackboard course.
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Communication tools: The Chat tool allows for real-time discourse without downloading and configuring additional software. Each user is given a Blackboard mail account (internal). The Discussion tool allows for course-wide or individual forums.
How can I use Blackboard for my courses?
Blackboard allows users, depending on role (student or faculty), to do the following:
- Deliver course materials (images, text, & multimedia)
- Integrate Web resources into a central location
- Communicate with students via several online formats (course calendar, mail, real-time chat, or discussion topics)
- Take quizzes or surveys online
- View posted grades online
- Supply student with feedback (self-tests and progress tracking)
- Submit assignments (digital format) to a virtual inbox
- Create opportunities for distant/local students to be involved in active learning