Blackboard Idea Exchange

From CTLpedia

Project Summary: The Blackboard Idea Exchange program allows the CTL at MCC to be more closely involved with the Blackboard company and it's product (WebCT CE 6.0). As Blackboard further develops and upgrades the WebCT product line, participation in this program allows the CTL to provide input to the developers directly and to have access to invitation-only webinars and products before they are released.

Contents 1 Project Goals 1.1 Relation to CTL Department Plan Initiatives 2 Project Staff 3 Project Timeline 4 Project Resources 5 Project Outcomes and Future Directions

Project Goals

• To have a closer relationship with the Blackboard company and it's developers in the hopes that our participation and feedback will improve their product line.
• To have access to and provide feedback to the Blackboard company about new products they are developing.

Relation to CTL Department Plan Initiatives

• Innovative New Technologies
• Support for Online Learning at MCC

Project Staff

• Melanie Kroening applied to the BIE program on behalf of the CTL. She has login access to the program's website and will communication with staff members on the program.
• Jeff Anderson and Donna Gaudet are also official members of the program.
• Martin Lehner and Wade Harris and Brad Kincaid may be called on for input and advice.

Project Timeline

• Melanie Kroening sent in the application for MCC's participation in the Blackboard Idea Exchange program in January of 2007. Blackboard accepted our application.
• The Blackboard Idea Exchange program is a two year program so the Center for Teaching & Learning will be a participant in this program until January 2009.
• Participation in this program is continuous for the two years. The CTL can participate and choose their own level of involvement and resources for this program.
• The annual users / developers conference for Blackboard and WebCT continues to be in July of each year so it is preferred that one or more members of the CTL attend.

Project Resources

• Staff time is required to communicate, participate, and provide feedback to Blackboard during this program's duration.
• Professional Growth funds will be applied for when possible for the cost of the annual Blackboard Developers Conference.
• Server space and support may be required to test and evaluate Blackboard products that may be available prior to their official release.

Project Outcomes and Future Directions

TBA as the program progresses.