What about the technology?

• This short slide show will introduce you to some of the technology tools that are used in this course, what you will need to participate, and what to do if you need help.

1. Discussion Board2. Pronto3. Blog4. Wiki5. Live Classroom6. Help Desk

Discussion Board

• Several chapters will include a Discussion Board. This is a tool that allows students to discuss a topic by posting their thoughts and responding to each other.

• If you click on the Discussion Board button, you will see the Discussion Board questions for the course. Here is an example:

• It is always important to use standard grammar and punctuation when you are writing in English.

• To receive full credit for this question you must respond to a classmate.

Live Classroom

• Another option that many teachers will use is the Live Classroom.

• This is a Live chat room that allows the entire class to talk using text, audio and video. The teacher can also use a whiteboard to bring in slides and web pages.

• Students do not have to attend the Live Classroom, but it is a great way to get extra help and learn more about your teacher and classmates.

• For full participation, a student should have speakers (or headphones) and a microphone.

Pronto

• Pronto is an instant messaging tool that can be downloaded onto your computer.

• It is a very useful device for contacting your teacher and classmates.

• It allows users to include audio, video and conferencing.

• Unfortunately, not all school systems allow it to be downloaded onto school computers.

• Here are the steps to download it onto your home computer:

1. Go to Tools box located in the bottom left part of your screen (see the picture above).

2. Click Communications and scroll down until you see Pronto.

3. Click on Pronto and you should enter a page where you can begin registration.

4. Follow all the instructions given on this page.

5. Make sure you save your user name and password.

Blog

• One of the other tools that you will find in this course is a Blog, which is short for web log. This is simply another tool that allows students to share their thoughts and opinions.

• It is very easy to use, and you will learn more about it the first time you are asked to use it.

Wiki

• Another tool that you may see is called a Wiki. This tool has been popularized by the Wikipedia.com site.

• A Wiki allows a community of people (like students) to work together on a project without being online at the same time.

• The Wiki can also be used to share opinions easily.

• It is very easy to use. You will learn more about later in the course.

Help Desk

• Confused? Exasperated? Mad?

• Call the Presidium Blackboard Help Desk at 1-866-223-1028

• Presidium can help with technical Blackboard issues.  If you lose your ID or password, or if you are unable to log in, call Presidium.  Presidium is available 24/7.