n o t e s&NEWS Center for Teaching, Learning & Technology
Volume 4, Issue 5 • March 2004
Blackboard Updates and Information
On June 28th, the Blackboard system was upgraded from version 6.0 to version 6.1.5. This upgrade provides Blackboard Course Management System instructors with several new features including the following: 1. A text box WYSIWYG editor (available only on PCs with the Internet Explorer browser). For PC users who also use Internet Explorer as their browser, text boxes now contain a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) editor. Now, without knowing HTML, instructors may edit text and insert objects directly into a text box. 2. Quick Edit. The Quick Edit functions as a toggle between display and edit view. When an instructor accesses course content using the course buttons, the Quick Edit shortcut allows the instructor to edit course content without having to go through the course control panel 3. Messages. Messages is an internal course communication tool that functions like an email system. Messages can only be sent and received from within a course. 4. Glossary. The Glossary can be used to define terminology associated with a course. 5. Spellcheck. Instructors can identify and correct spelling errors in text boxes. The Spell Check feature is supported by a full English dictionary and instructors can also create and store custom word lists. 6. Course Templates. Departments can now design templates for their courses. Templates can be used if a consistent look is desired for multiple courses.
staf f MEMBER
A faculty member attending one of the many Blackboard workshops
Multiple workshops on the latest version of Blackboard are offered year-round at the Center for Teaching, Learning & Technology. A description of Blackboard workshops is listed on the second page of this newsletter as well as online at: http://ctlt.bgsu.edu/workshops/list.php. There are three ways to register for a workshop: 1. Register online by filling out the form at: http:// ctlt.bgsu.edu/workshops/registration.php. 2. Send an email to Kris Sautter at ksautte@bgnet.bgsu.edu. Include the workshop name and date in your email. 3. Call the CTLT at (419) 372-6898.
Garrick received a Bachelor degree from BGSU in Visual Communication Technology and is currently working on his Masters in Career & Technology Education. At CTLT Garrick assists with: • Consulting faculty • CTLT web site maintenance • Conducting workshops
Garrick Ducat 201 University Hall • (419) 372-6898 • http://ctlt.bgsu.edu