Blackboard -

Blackboard Learning Management System
(Teacher/Designer's Perspective)

Blackboard (verson 6.1) is a Web-based learning management system that allows teachers to create and maintain a virtual classroom environment by providing learners with the opportunity to communicate with their instructors and peers online.

Functions of the Blackboard software that was covered during this course included: Blackboard Control Panel, Content Areas, Course Tools, Course Options, User Management, Assessment and Support.

Having worked with Blackboard from the perspective of "the student" last spring semester, I was curious to find out the operations of this program from the "instructor's end." I discovered that navigating through Blackboard with instructor access, is similiar to the student-type navigation. The management functionality of Blackboard is intuitive and straight-forward. I can see how this system can create a virtual classroom that enhances teaching, opens lines for effective communication, and manages assignments and assessments more efficiently. I am looking forward to working with Blackboard this next semester.

In ETEC 649, a Web-enhanced curriculum project, utilizing BlackBoard, was given as an assignment. A Kamehameha Schools System-Wide Technology Committee site was created. Due to the number of committees that represented the different campuses across three islands, a singular "location" was needed for member access and interaction. This BlackBoard site is an "online workplace" where committee members have asynchronous access to announcements, information, documents, on-going projects, chat rooms and discussion boards.