Technology & resources
It is important that all distance education students have convenient access to appropriate technology. To get the most out of your online learning experience, you’ll need a PC or Mac computer that is capable of opening web-based applications and playing videos. In addition, you’ll need access to the Internet. Most students use a notebook computer, but desktop versions or tablets will work for most courses. Increasingly, smart phones are being used for course communications and participation.
Also be aware that individual courses may require additional access to textbooks, CDs, DVDs, video tapes, audio tapes, or other specialized software. Information on course-specific, required materials is provided to students at the beginning of each semester.
- Ultra Base Navigation Brochure
- Getting Started for Students: Ultra Easy Navigation
- Activity Stream Video
- Notification Settings Video
- How to submit an Assignment
- How to post to a Discussion
- How to take a Test/Quiz
- How to View My Grades for All Courses
- Video: Introducing the Blackboard App– Use of the Blackboard Student App DOES NOT replace logging into the Blackboard Learning Management System on a computer via a web browser. The Student App does not offer all the features and functionality of the Learning Management System at this time, therefore it is highly recommended that all students log into Blackboard daily on a computer via a web browser.
About the Blackboard Student App
You can access your ECSU courses from your phone with Blackboard’s new app, Bb Student. You can view course content, get your grades, complete work, and participate in class all from your mobile device.
Bb Student enables you to stay current in class no matter where you are:
- Stay on task with push notifications and a prioritized list of upcoming activities and due dates.
- View tests, assignments, and course grades as soon as I post them.
- Participate in discussions and take tests and submit assignments.
- Attach assignment files using Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. Assignments should be typed in a Word Processing software and saved to a storage drive prior to attempting to attach them via the app. It is still recommended that assignments be completed on a computer and submitted in Blackboard through a web browser.
Ready to download Bb Student?
- Access the Apple, Google, or Microsoft app store and search for Bb Student.
- Install the Bb Student app on your mobile device.
- Open Bb Student and search for the full name of your school.
- Sign in with your existing Blackboard username and password.
For more information visit the following links:
- Bb Student App Video
- Bb Student – this web page provides additional information and descriptions of key features in Bb Student.
NOTE: Blackboard Dashboard Notifications received daily through email and use of the Blackboard Student App DO NOT replace logging into the Blackboard Learning Management System on a computer via a web browser. The Student App does not offer all the features and functionality of the Learning Management System at this time, therefore it is highly recommended that all students log into Blackboard daily on a computer via a web browser.
Echo360 is a lecture capture system. Echo360 allows instructors to record lectures
and post the recordings in Blackboard courses for students to review. If you’re interested in learning more, here are a few helpful Echo360 links:
Respondus LockDown Browser is a locked browser for taking tests in Blackboard Learn. It prevents students from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during a test. If a Blackboard test requires that LockDown Browser be used, students will not be able to take the test with a standard web browser. You may be required to use LockDown Browser with a webcam, which will record you during an online, nonproctored exam. The webcam feature is called Respondus Monitor.
If you’re interested in learning more, here are a few helpful Respondus links:
Download Instructions
Download and install LockDown Browser from this link: https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=941836618
System Requirements
- Windows: 10, 8, 7
- Mac: MacOS 10.12 or higher
Memory
- Windows: 75 MB permanent space on the hard drive
- Mac: 120 MB permanent space on the hard drive
Once Installed
- Start LockDown Browser
- Log into Blackboard Learn
- Navigate to the test
Technical Support
Privacy Information
When taking an online exam, follow these guidelines:
- Select a location where you will not be interrupted
- Before starting the test, know how much time is available for it, and that you have allotted sufficient time to complete it
- Turn off all mobile devices, phones, etc. and do not have them within reach
- Clear your area of all external materials — books, papers, other computers, or devices
- Remain at your desk or workstation for the duration of the test
- LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you will be unable to exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted.
Resources