Plan Ahead for Snow Days with Instructional Technology Tools

Winterize courses against Mother Nature’s icy influence

An impending blizzard during the winter season reminds us all of potential disruptions to course delivery due to snow and icy weather. Last year, Dr. Anne Spence successfully used Blackboard Collaborate to replace face-to-face sessions after snow delays canceled several class sessions. Several instructional technology tools are available to support teaching and learning when classes cannot meet. 

Blackboard Learn is UMBC’s learning management system. It is hosted by Blackboard to ensure a stable and reliable environment 24/7. Blackboard offers three core themes to support instruction: content management; communication, collaboration & engagement; and assessment & grade management.

Content Management

  • Upload syllabus, course materials & handouts
  • Post presentations
  • Share links & resources
  • Embed YouTube videos
  • Link to TechSmith Relay screencasts

Communication, Collaboration & Engagement

  • Facilitate & continue course discussions
  • Send email & messages
  • Post announcements
  • Manage small group activities
  • Support blogs, wikis & journals
Assessment & Grade Management
  • Distribute & collect assignments
  • Grade electronically with rubrics & embedded feedback
  • Post grades
  • Maintain digital gradebook
  • Deliver tests & secure with Respondus LockDown Browser 
Bb Collaborate supports live, real-time lectures, presentations, and conversations with a wide range of tools such as 2-way audio; interactive whiteboard and desktop sharing; video feeds; and session recording. Use Collaborate to deliver live lectures or study sessions, host virtual office hours, demonstrate software such as SPSS or Photoshop, host guest speakers, and more. Test-drive the new Chrome-based Collaborate experience.

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Posted: January 20, 2016, 12:12 PM

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