Information Fluency - Blackboard
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Introduction

The Blackboard Learning System at Furman University has been in place since September of 2002. For the first few terms the system was in an early adoption phase. The winter upgrades have solved many of the early problems. We are currently using Version 6.07 of Blackboard and the system appears to be working well.

Why Blackboard?

  • Blackboard is one of the largest and course management systems. It has a large installed user base and many enhancements and course modules are available.
  • Blackboard can expand the classroom in time and space.
  • It is designed for educational use.
  • It presents a standard Interface with the Furman University's face on it.
  • It's private. Classes may be made available only to enrolled students. This helps avoid copyright issues of a publicly available web site.
  • Blackboard can use the FirstClass E-mail system already in place on campus.
  • Classes are portable (to other Blackboard servers).

Some Blackboard Capabilities

  • Classes are automatically populated with registered students.
  • Published Syllabus and Assignments List.
  • Course Information and Course Documents is available 24/7.
  • Many Available Media Formats are supported. HTML, Word, Powerpoint, etc.
  • Timed Material Availability. You may set, in advance, when various course materials will be published and withdrawn.
  • Assessment Capabilities. Blackboard is currently used for surveys and quizzes.
  • Gradebook - Automatic or Manual entry of grades is possible.
  • Groups or Teams may be created within a class. This aids collaboration within and outside the classroom.
  • Class Calendar. This can be published for all to see and is available to enrolled students any time.
  • A class may be recycled with all teaching materials intact, but with student input deleted.
  • A class may be archived either to the server or locally to the instructor's computer.

 Using Blackboard

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