New features on the LMS
StudyMate
Providing the ability for students to author flash-card and multiple-choice questions offers an opportunity for students to critically reflect on subject content and define key concepts in their own words. StudyMate Class Server provides a mechanism for students to directly enter their contributions online, and for those questions to be used by their peers for study purposes. This provides user benefits in the form of reduced staff workload, and pedagogical benefits through inclusion of student contributions as active teaching and learning elements. The creation of a social learning environment aims to foster greater engagement with the subject content, as well as peer accountability.
Web Folder functionality change for IE users on PCs
Users of Internet Explorer on a PC previously had the option to open a Web Folder instance of the Content Collection enabling bulk upload of files. This process has been replaced by using permanent Web Folders in the My Network Places on PCs. This allows users to upload content to the LMS without even logging into the LMS!
MapleTA
Maple TA is a web-based system for creating tests and assignments, supporting complex free-form entry of mathematical equations and automated evaluation of responses. Use of this tool is available only to specific staff in Engineering and Mathematics due to licensing arrangements but serves as an example of integration possibilities for Blackboard-compatible departmental tools and the LMS.
Updated versions of wikis and blogs
The new versions of the wiki and blog tools now have a spell-checker and easier options for uploading, linking to, and playing videos.