We will be running another series of demo sessions to introduce Blackboard Collaborate, a new virtual classroom tool. Blackboard Collaborate provides staff with a modern, powerful tool to facilitate synchronous (at the same time) learning activities. Its features include sharing audio, webcam video, presentations in a white board, and a chat window which includes a polling feature. It is possible to share your desktop or other applications with students and split students into breakout room groups. Sessions can be recorded to allow playback later by students who miss the session. Staff moderating sessions have control over a variety of options which can be used to manage the classroom environment and create the type of session that is appropriate for their teaching needs.

Blackboard Collaborate can be accessed on or off campus and can be used inside and outside of Blackboard sites. Staff can invite people from outside of the university to participate in Collaborate sessions as well. This can be used to include guest speakers, workplace mentors, and others who do not have university accounts in the sessions. It can be used for teaching and learning purposes, but can also be used for other purposes such as staff development, student support and business needs.

The session will introduce the Blackboard Collaborate interface, explain some of the functionality, demonstrate key features, and explain use cases in a SHU context. There will be an opportunity to discuss how this tool might work in your context.

The session will be delivered online via Blackboard Collaborate itself, enabling you to participate from wherever your are working. In order to hear the audio during the session you will need headphones or speakers. If you wish to speak yourself during the session you will need a headset with microphone or a separate microphone; if you do not have a microphone you can still communicate with the participants and moderators using the text-chat option. Further information about getting started with Collaborate is available in the guide for participants. A link to the Collaborate session will be emailed to you in advance of the session you sign up to.

Click the link to book:

Wednesday 10 April 2013, 11:00-12:00, online via Blackboard Collaborate
Monday 15 April 2013, 14:00-15:00, online via Blackboard Collaborate
Tuesday 23 April 2013, 10:00-11:00, online via Blackboard Collaborate