University of Calgary

eLearning

eLearning

If you are prepared to be self motivated, manage your time effectively, and have the necessary technology, online learning can be the perfect solution to a complex schedule! Despite the fact that you do not meet with people face to face, online learning is highly interactive and requires thoughtful contributions to group discussions. This can be a very rewarding experience, and many feel they get to know their online classmates more fully than their face to face classmates. There is therefore, a significant time commitment required due to the high degree of participation expected.

You will use online communication tools for discussion with your instructor and classmates (for example Blackboard and Elluminate). These tools are not difficult to use - visit http://elearn.ucalgary.ca/ for tutorials and more. Also visit http://www.ucalgary.ca/it/services for more information on general IT and computing questions you may have.

  • Blackboard: Allows you to access all your course materials online and communicate within a secure and protected environment. This provides access to all pertinent course information your instructor has posted in addition to a discussion board area, secure email tool, and communication tools.
  • Elluminate: Elluminate is a tool available within Blackboard and can be used by the entire class, or smaller groups. It provides a virtual classroom environment that supports online interaction during lectures and/or meetings.

Computer Requirements

You will require regular access to a computer with a reasonably fast internet connection. High speed internet connections make downloading and uploading materials faster and are preferred, however, slower connections are functional, they just take long

Windows Requirements

  • Windows XP or Vista
  • 1 GHz Pentium class processor or better
  • 1GB RAM
  • Broadband Internet connection (DSL/Cable/LAN) preferred
  • Internet Explorer 7+ or Mozilla Firefox (preferred browser for Blackboard). The latest Java Runtime Environment (Plug-in that you can download for free at http://www.java.com/en/download/index.jsp)
  • sound card
  • headset (preferred), for participating in Elluminate sessions, or speakers and microphone

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Need Internet Access?

Students are responsible for arranging regular and frequent access to the internet in order to complete various learning activities. Where students do not have internet access at home, other options might be considered such as local educational institutions or libraries. Remember however that regular access is key to success! In northern Alberta additional sites may be available.

Document Resources

Video Resources

Managing Blended Learning in an Age of Rapid Technology Changes: Making the Case for Happiness, Openness and Being Nimble - Dr. Susan Crichton and Dr. Gail Kopp from the Faculty of Education (Associated Powerpoint File)

 

 

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