Transitioning to Online Courses Quick Start Guide

This quick-start guide is here to help you feel more comfortable and secure in taking your first online course.

Blackboard Learn Login

Blackboard Training for Students

Click the above link for short tutorials on how to use Blackboard. Here, you can learn how to do everything on Blackboard from basic navigation to submitting an assignment to taking a test. You will log into this training with your EagleID username and password – this is the same one you use for campus computers, campus Wi-Fi, Eagle Connect, Eagle Sync, and other campus tools. It is also the same username and password you use to access Blackboard.

Technology Tips

Use the Firefox or Chrome browser for Blackboard.
When taking tests, we recommend a desktop or laptop computer.
Don’t have a computer?
- Borrow one from a friend or relative.
- Use Digital Backpack to virtually connect to a Windows 10 computer on any device with an internet connection. Log into the Digital Backpack using the same credentials you use for Blackboard.
- Use one in a public library.
- Contact the John F. Moss University Library. They may have laptops available for checkout.
- If all else fails, communicate with your instructor.
No internet connection?
- You can do a lot on your phone using a web-browser or the Blackboard app.
- Try a public Wi-Fi hotspot in your area. Be sure to maintain social distancing.
- If all else fails, communicate with your instructor.

Tools you might need

For online testing you may need the Respondus LockDown Browser, or the ProctorU, extension for Chrome, or Firefox.

Respondus LockDown Browser is an alternative web browser (like Chrome or Firefox) which you may be asked to use to take a test. If the LockDown Browser is required, instead of using your regular browser, you will download and use this one.

ProctorU is an online proctoring tool which uses a webcam to record you when taking a test. A webcam will be required to use this tool. To use this tool, install the correct browser extension, and follow your instructor’s directions regarding taking the test through Blackboard. If you don’t have a webcam, communicate with your instructor.

Some classes will meet using Zoom web-conferencing. The first time you launch the meeting you will be prompted to download and install the meeting app. If you do not have a webcam or headset, here are a couple of tips for participating in the meeting:

If you have a smart phone, download the Zoom app for IOS or Android. Click on the meeting link to join it and the app will open, allowing you to participate using your phone’s microphone and front-facing camera.
If you don’t have a smart phone, use your computer’s speakers (or headphones or earbuds plugged into the computer’s headphone jack) to listen to the meeting, and participate through the chat interface:

Advice for New Online Learners

Check your Ace Email daily. You will receive important university communications via Ace Email.
Log into your Blackboard course several times a week. Your instructor will post their expectations regarding participation and due dates.
Use the same behaviors you would use in class. Pay attention. Don’t cheat. Do your own work unless you are told to collaborate.
Schedule a block of time equivalent to what you usually spend in class plus what you would usually spend on homework, and plan to spend that much time online each week.
Communicate with your instructors. We understand this may be new to you. You may be dealing with other issues as a result of the spread of the virus, such as personal or family illness, unexpected change in job situation, etc. Tell your instructor what is going on. Ask questions. Ask for help. If possible, contact your instructor before when you are not going to be able to meet a deadline or complete an assignment or test as scheduled.

Getting Technology Help

The Office of Information Technology IT Service Desk will maintain regular working hours virtually and remotely. IT Service Desk staff will be available:

Monday – Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:45 p.m.
Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

To submit a support request:

By phone: 903-334-6603
By Email: isite@tamut.edu
Submit a Support Request Ticket: https://isite.tamut.edu/