Analyzing University Blackboard - Essay Example

With the Blackboard Content System, you will no longer need to upload the same file to several different sections you would simply link from your course to the file in the Content System.

Blackboard provides students with the following functions:
- Announcements,
- Course Content,
- Tests/Quizzes,
- Surveys,
- Discussion Boards,
- Chat Rooms,
- Broadcast Email,
- Assignment Submission

This way if you modify, for example, the syllabus file in the Content System, the updates in the file can be reflected automatically in all the courses without having to go into each course and modify each file:
- Store your files in one place.
- Share your files with other faculty, and multiple courses.
- Reuse your files each semester.
- Maintain your files with time-saving editing features like drag & drop file management and direct editing of content from your desktop.

Opportunities:
- Remote Tutorial,
- Constant Communication with Instructors and Students,
- Online exploration.

Threats:
- Tardiness,
- Excessive use of Internet sources for assignments and projects,
- Misuse of Resources. 

Throughout this guide, you find a set of "Why Bother" ideas for Blackboard usage. So, below we've compiled a list of ideas from the broad spectrum of uses to get you thinking of why you would use Blackboard in your course:
- Place your course materials on the web so that your students have access to your course content 24X7.
- Offer your students a "backup" option if they misplace syllabi or assignments from class.
- Allow your students to lengthen an engaging discussion that begins in class, but in an online format.
- Gain a feel for how your students understand your content.
- Have Blackboard auto-grade quizzes and assessments for you.
- Help students keep better track of how they are progressing through the class.
- Broadcast a note to students reminding them of upcoming deadlines.
- Give students an online space in which to work on group projects.

This is an exploratory study that aims to understand the current implementation of University Blackboard. Based on the evaluation, indicates that the general visibility of this study is guaranteed. The results of this study give students and faculty members more understanding of how Westminster University applies the standard student-faculty services online with the use of tools via the internet according to the website design standards.

Furthermore, enhancement and personalizing of the University Blackboard can be adapted to suit and blend with the general there of the University website. Security is still a concern. Giving access to students should be monitored momentarily to avoid identity theft among students.