The Tools Distance Learning

Blackboard Collaborate Log on to Blackboard Click Student Tools Click “Blackboard Collaborate” Click “Join Room” Ensure that your video is working by clicking the video icon at the bottom of the screen Ensure that your microphone is working by clicking the microphone icon at the bottom of the screen- follow prompts and adjust audio as needed from the black box inside the cabinet Note: There may be times when you have to accept add-ons

Blackboard Collaborate… continued Sharing your screen Click the purple tools arrow on the lower right side of the session Click the box with an arrow pointing right Select what you want to share Share Blank Whiteboard- Creates a blank white space to draw, use text, etc Share Application- Shares your entire screen or an application (may include add-on extensions) Share Files- Selected from your computer (Tip: These files should be ready beforehand and accessible from the computer you are using.

Blackboard Collaborate… continued Using Chat Click the purple arrows on the bottom right of your screen Click the word bubble This is helpful to use when your student wants to ask a question or when your audio isn’t working properly.

Blackboard Collaborate… continued Settings Settings that can be useful and adjusted: Notification Settings and Session Settings When a student is having a difficult time a computer mic or audio, a phone can be used. To do this, click the purple arrows at the bottom right of the screen Click the gear icon Click “Audio and Video Settings” Click “Use your phone for audio”

Blackboard Collaborate-Student Directions Example emails 1 of 2 Good afternoon! I will be your instructor for EDU 425 in Winter 2017.  As you know, your course will be offered at a distance.  When courses are offered through distance education, it is best to prepare ahead of time.  Try to find a place where you can engage deeply during our class sessions, a place that is free of noise or other distractions and where you can speak freely.  I am offering this course through Blackboard Collaborate so it would be important for you to learn all you can about participating using Blackboard Collaborate.  You can do this by accessing “My Help” in Blackboard. You will access Collaborate through our Blackboard course. Be sure to prepare also with a web cam and ensure that you have a working microphone on your computer.  Many times, students can log on from their home campuses.   Fieldwork -Your home campus will place you for this experience.  It is best that you communicate with your program directors to share any needs or concerns you have about field placements.  I have included them in this email.   2 of 2 Good morning!   Here are some connection tips.... 1. Open Blackboard and click on our course. 2. Click “Student Tools” 3. Click on “Blackboard Collaborate” 4. Click on “Join Room” 5. Be sure to check your mic and camera well before class to ensure they are all in proper working order. 6. Be sure to take off the mute so I can hear your thoughts and ideas. One more thing, if this is your first distance class, don't worry.  It's mine, too, and we will learn together.  :)   "See" you soon!

The Camera Locate the camera remote and turn on the camera Aim the camera by using the remote Select the primary location for your learning sessions Consider where the microphones are in the room Consider close access to plugs Consider necessary access to other materials

Google Docs Why I use Google Docs in my distance courses…… This serves as a common point of access for all students in the class. I like that students can click directly on the links and interact via BYOD. Students can return to the same URL with ease for further study. We can all return to a previous interaction to observe the documentation of our learning. Students who are home sick are not necessarily “off the hook”. It is also FAR easier to get them caught up this way. Our thinking is visible and we can return to our discussions even weeks down the road to see how much we have grown.