General FAQ

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INDEX

1. What is Bb@GW (Blackboard@GW)?
2. Am I required to use the Bb@GW course management system?
3. How do I get a Bb@GW account?
4. How do I log onto Bb@GW?
5. Can I use any web browser to access Bb@GW?
6. How do I get assistance in using Bb@GW?

1. What is Bb@GW (Blackboard@GW)?

Bb@GW is an on line course management system, GW's license for the Blackboard Learning System. It enables you to provide students with syllabi, course-related materials, assignments, assessments, and communication features. Bb@GW is an authenticated system, so that only students who are registered for your course(s) can gain access to your online content.

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2. Am I required to use the Bb@GW course management system?

There is currently no required use of the system. There is, however, a growing expectation from students at the University that you will place your content in an online environment. It’s also a good way to cut down on the amount of printing, manual grading, and paper collection you have to do.

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3. How do I get a Bb@GW account?

If you are an instructor for GW with an active user@gwu.edu email address, you already have a Bb@GW account. 

If you do not have a GW Mail account, click on this link to visit the ISS Virtual Helpdesk Account Center.  

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4. How do I log onto Bb@GW?

Using your preferred web browser, go to http://blackboard.gwu.edu . Once there, click on the Login button. To access the system you must use your NetID (GW mail username) and password. Your username is your e-mail address without "@gwu.edu", and your password is the same as your Colonial Mail password.

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5. Can I use any web browser to access Bb@GW?

Information Systems and Services (ISS) officially supports the use of Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or better.

The Blackboard Learning System v6.0 and above is optimized for Netscape 6.2 or better, and Internet Explorer 5.0 and better on both a Mac and PC.

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6. How do I get assistance in using Bb@GW?

• Tier I support for Bb@GW is provided by the ISS Helpdesk at (202) 994 5530 option 2 or by visiting http://helpdesk.gwu.edu.
  
• The Center for Instructional Design and Development (CIDD) offers how-to workshops in Content, Communications, and Assessment using Bb@GW, as well as an Express workshop that includes instruction on all three. Visit http://cidd.gwu.edu/workshops for further details and a schedule of events.
  
• In addition to the how-to workshops, the CIDD offers course design lab sessions where you can work on your own course materials or get more hands-on guided practice while using Bb@GW. Bb@GW online guides, FAQ, and documentation can be found by visiting http://www.gwu.edu/~bbnews.
  
• You can get one-on-one help by either contacting the Center for Instructional Design and Development (CIDD) staff or by visiting the Instructional Technology Lab (ITL) during open drop-in hours. Browse http://cidd.gwu.edu/about/staff.html to get individual contact information. The Spring 2003 hours for the ITL are Monday and Tuesday from 10am-3pm, and Wednesday and Thursday from 1pm-6pm. Email the ITL at itl@gwu.edu , or call 202-994-0485.
• The GW Blackboard Tour (http://cidd.gwu.edu/bbtour) is an online guide that offers step-by-step instructions for Blackboard features in three formats - printable format to walk you through each step; a flash movie format that demonstrates the steps for you; and an interactive flash movie that responds to your clicks to guide you through the steps.
  

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