eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
Boise State University
QUICK START GUIDE
Student Orientation to Boise State eCampus
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
Boise State University
CONTENTS
Welcome to Boise State eCampus ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Student Success ................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Organization ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Prioritization ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Communication .................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Engagement ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Dedication .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Blackboard .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Accessing Blackboard Classes .......................................................................................................................................................... 8
eLearning at Boise State ................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Student Information ........................................................................................................................................................... 12
Academic Honesty, Cheating, and Plagiarism ................................................................................................................................. 12
Course Evaluations.......................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Information Technology Resource Use............................................................................................................................................ 12
Online Behavior ............................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Proctored Exams ............................................................................................................................................................................. 13
Statement of Shared Values ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
Student Online Privacy Notice ......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Appendix ........................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Appendix I – Online Class Exploration Checklist ............................................................................................................................. 16
Appendix II – Study Plan Template.................................................................................................................................................. 17
Appendix III – Calendar Template ................................................................................................................................................... 19
Appendix IV – Contact List Template............................................................................................................................................... 25
Appendix V - Blackboard Quick Reference Guide ........................................................................................................................... 26
Appendix VI – Statement of Shared Values ..................................................................................................................................... 28
1
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
Boise State University
WELCOME TO BOISE STATE ECAMPUS
At Boise State University, eCampus encompasses all academic courses taught at a distance using educational
technology to deliver or convey class content and communication between the instructor and students. The two main
learning frameworks that mediate distance courses are asynchronous and synchronous. Asynchronous refers to activities
that do not require participation at a specific time while synchronous activities are conducted in real time or at specified
times with other students.
The focus of this Quick Start Guide is online learning that uses the Internet as the primary way of uniting teachers,
students, and course content. Most Boise State faculty who use the Internet to deliver course content also use the course
management system, Blackboard. Therefore, in addition to reviewing strategies for being successful in an online course,
this guide will introduce students to Blackboard, and other important information related to online learning at Boise State.
STUDENT SUCCESS
Online learning presents students with unique opportunities and challenges. Online courses have a greater level of
flexibility and allow students to work on coursework when it works best for their schedule. However, since students do not
physically go to a classroom each week for instruction, they are even more dependent on themselves to stay active in the
class and motivated to complete assignments.
The purpose of this portion of the guide is to provide you with information to be successful in an online eCampus class.
Success in an online class requires organization, prioritization, communication, engagement, and dedication. In this
section you will review strategies, tips, techniques, and resources available to increase your success as an online student.
Student
Success
2
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•
•
•
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Organization
Prioritization
Communication
Engagement
Dedication
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Boise State University
ORGANIZATION
Successful online learners understand the importance of organization, especially if they are registered in more than one
class. Taking a few moments at the beginning of the class to review due dates of exams, assignments and other class
requirements is essential to success. Knowing what is expected of you at the beginning will help you create an organized
and realistic plan for the rest of the semester. In this section you will review strategies for starting out the semester
organized and prepared.
Review Notes

On your class schedule
in my.BoiseState, you will
find one or more notes
associated with your
class.

These notes provide
important information and
reminders about the
class such as
prerequisites, testing,
and in-person or
synchronous
requirements.


Review all class notes
prior to the start of the
semester and answer the
following questions.
 When does my class
begin?
 Do I need to purchase
any textbooks,
computer software,
supplies or other
equipment?
 Are there any in-person
requirements for this
online class?
 Will there be any
proctored exams?
 What is the time
commitment for this
class?
Class notes are not
designed to provide all the
information about a class
but they provide a good
picture of what to expect
before you have access to
the class.
Purchase Textbooks




Online instructors expect
you to be ready to learn
the first week of class.
 Avoid unnecessary
delays by purchasing
textbooks and supplies
before class begins.
The Boise State
Bookstore makes it easy
to find required books.
 Look for the Textbook
Express button on your
class schedule.
 It automatically
compiles a book list
based on your
registration information.
If you choose to
purchase your books
from the Bookstore, you
have the option to pick
up your order at
 Bronco Express,
located in the Student
Union Building, or
 At a Bronco Shop near
you.
 You may have books
shipped directly to you
for a shipping fee.
If you order your books
online, whether from the
Boise State Bookstore or
from another online
retailer, place your order
early to allow enough time
for your books to arrive
before the start of your
class.
3
Assess Learning Space

Before class begins take
a few minutes to review
Browser and System
Requirements for
Blackboard.

Install more than one
browser on your
computer.
 Experiment. You may
find Blackboard
performs better in one
browser over another.

Identify other computers
with an Internet
connection that are
available to use.
 If you experience
trouble with your
computer or Internet
connection you will
need access to a
reliable back-up.

Review the physical
space where you will
work on coursework
during the semester and
ask yourself these
questions.
 Is this space quiet and
free from distractions?
How might you limit the
distractions?
 Is there enough space
and light to be
comfortable while
studying? How can you
make adjustments?
 Will I have to share the
computer with another
person? How will you
share time with them?
Explore Online Class

Instructors contact
students through
BroncoMail before or on
the first day of the class
with instructions for
accessing the online
course site.

Once you receive an
email from your
instructor, access your
online class as soon as
possible to explore and
familiarize yourself with
the navigation.
 Locate, read, and print
a copy of the syllabus.
 Review the class and
student expectations as
well as the class
schedule and types of
assignments.
 This information will
give you an idea of
what to expect during
the semester.

For more information on
what to look for as you
explore the class see
Appendix I for an Online
Class Exploration
Checklist.

If you are new to
Blackboard, review the
information available in
the Blackboard section of
this guide.
 You'll find an
overview of features,
access information,
and links to video
tutorials.
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Boise State University
PRIORITIZATION
Successful online learners prioritize their activities to stay on top of homework, reading, and deadlines. Developing study
plans, calendars, and to-do lists will help you stay on task and develop good time management skills. In this section you
will review strategies to increase your time management skills through prioritization.
Create a Master Calendar
Develop a Study Plan



Most online instructors
have assignment
deadlines each week.
 You can do your work
when it's convenient for
your schedule but you
must meet the
instructor expectations
and deadlines for
submitting all work.
Since you are not
meeting with your
instructor or classmates
at a specific time each
week, it can be easy to
feel disconnected from
course requirements.
 This can lead to an "out
of sight, out of mind"
feeling when it comes
to completing
assignments and
participating in the
course.
 To avoid this feeling,
identify blocks of time
each week you can
devote to study then
follow the steps
outlined in Appendix II
to develop a study plan
for each of your online
classes.
A well-developed study
plan can help you:
 Avoid procrastinating
important tasks.
 Be prepared for exams
and quizzes.
 Manage stressful times
during the semester.
 Feel more confident.



In addition to taking
online classes, you may
also have a variety of
responsibilities on your
plate such as personal,
work, and/or family
obligations.
 Having all your
important dates and
deadlines in one place
will help you to see
your busy times and
plan for unexpected
events as they occur.
Include on your master
calendar:
 Your study plan, class
schedule, and
deadlines for the
University.
 Personal and family
events like
appointments,
birthdays, holidays, and
vacations.
 Work obligations like
business trips or
projects.
Identify areas where you
can scale back until
school is complete.
 Limit volunteer work.
 Identify ways friends
and family can help.
 Avoid unnecessary
projects or tasks.
Your master calendar can
be electronic or paper whichever is right for you.
 For a paper template see
Appendix III.

4
Write a “To-Do” List




Create a “to do” list each
week that includes both
academic and nonacademic items.
 This will help you to
visualize your tasks,
give you a snapshot of
your week, and allow
you to focus your
energy on the most
important tasks.
Review your study plan
and master calendar to
determine what items will
be on your list.
 Determine what
activities have the
highest priority.
 These are the activities
you'll want to work on
first before moving on
to lower priority items.
There are lots of ways to
create to-do lists - from a
pen and paper to a
mobile phone app. You
can even create a "Task"
list within Blackboard.
 The key is to find a
system that works well
for you.
 This will encourage you
to continue the process
each week.
For more information and
tips for creating a to-do
list review the Time
Management Series
available on the Study
Guides and Strategies
website.
Practice Good Habits

Let's face it, college is
stressful.

Some of the stressors of
college life you have no
control over.
 These stressors include
things like:
 Deadlines
 Studying for exams
 Completing
assignments
 Writing Research
papers

The good news is you do
have control over a
variety of things that can
lead to stress.
 Deal with the stress of
a busy semester in
healthy ways by:
 Eating a balanced
diet
 Getting enough sleep
 Exercising regularly
 Taking quick study
breaks to relax

Taking the time to care
for your body and mind
will help you stay focused
and energized
throughout the semester.

For more information on
practicing good habits,
see Health Topics &
Resources and Wellness
Services available from
University Health
Services.
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Boise State University
COMMUNICATION
Successful online learners know the importance of regular communication. Visual clues and body language are ways a
face-to-face instructor determines if students are 1) present and 2) understanding the material. These clues are not
available in online classes. The only way an online instructor can “see” you are present and understanding material is
through regular communication. If you have questions or are struggling, it is up to you to communicate with the instructor
in a timely manner. In this section you will review tips for effective communication in an online class.
Ask Early & Often
Know Your Contacts
Be Aware of Your Words

There are a variety of
people and services at
Boise State to help you
succeed, but they can
only help if you ask for
assistance.

Waiting until the last
minute to ask a question
or ask for assistance is
one of the worst thing
you can do in an online
class.

Knowing when to contact
someone is just as
important as knowing
who to contact.
 Review times offices
are open and available
as well as when and
how to contact your
instructor.

Since almost all
communication is
asynchronous (not in real
time), if you ask about an
assignment a day before
it's due, you run the risk
of not having your
question answered
before the due date.
 Avoid this situation by
asking early.
 This way you will have
time to meet your
deadlines and avoid the
stress of last minute
rushing.



Develop a list of contacts
that includes but is not
limited to:
 Instructors for each
course
 Academic or Program
Advisors
 Technical Support
 Registrar’s Office
 Library Services
 Tutoring Services
If you need assistance
after business hours look
to the web.
 Almost all departments
at Boise State have
websites with
information and
resources available 24
hours a day.
See Appendix IV for a
Contact List template.

Set your own "question
deadline" by building a
time for asking questions
into your weekly study
plan.
 Remind yourself of this
deadline by including it
in your master
calendar.
 Review your syllabus
for the instructor's
communication policy
and contact
information.
 Make note of how and
when you should
contact them with
questions.
5

Communicating and
interacting with your
online instructor and
classmates is quite
different from
communicating and
interacting in a traditional
face-to-face lecture
class.

While online classes tend
to feel less formal, you
are still expected to use
proper grammar and
spelling when
communicating with
others.
 Review and re-read all
information before
submitting anything for
your instructor and
classmates to view.


When communicating in
text you won't have tone
and inflection to help
explain your message.
So be mindful of how
your words could be
interpreted.
 Avoid sarcasm as it
doesn't translate very
well in text.
 Using all caps or bold
can be seen as yelling.
For more information
read Improving
Communication in an
Online Course: Verbal
and Nonverbal
Communication from
BrightHub.com.
Be Pro-Active

No one knows you better
than you.
 If you are struggling in
an online course, you
will know it before
anyone else.
 Don't wait until the last
minute to ask for help;
talk to your instructor,
academic advisor, or
other campus
representative.

Think about your longterm goals and how you
can achieve them.
 Stay on track to
graduate by working
closely with your
academic advisor to
identify future classes.
 Register early to avoid
missing important
classes.

Pay close attention to
registration deadlines.
 If you need to drop a
course, you only have
short period of time to
do so.
 Missing deadlines can
have academic and/or
financial ramifications.

Stay on top of important
dates by incorporating
them into your master
calendar and including
actions you need to take
on your weekly to-do list.
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Boise State University
ENGAGEMENT
Successful online learners engage with others and the course content. As with almost anything in life, the more engaged
you are with an activity the more likely you are to succeed. Online learning is no exception. Make the most of your time in
class to connect with your classmates, the instructor, and the course content. In this section you will review strategies for
staying engaged while learning online.
Get Active


The difference between
active and passive
participation is activity.
For example, you are
passively engaged when
you listen to a lecture
while you are actively
engaged when you
discuss a topic with
others.
You actively participate in
an online class by:
 Reading & Writing
 Since online learning is
mainly text based, you
will read and write
much more than in a
face-to-face-class.





Know Your Style

Learn more tips for being
an active participant with
eCampus Tips for
Success.
A study plan will help you
identify when to study,
but knowing your
learning style will help
you identify how to study.

Your learning style, or
learning preference
describes how you best
learn and interpret
information.

There are three main
types of learning styles:
visual, auditory, and
kinethetic.
 Visual learners benefit
from seeing information
(charts, graphs,
diagrams, pictures,
presentations)
 Auditory learners
benefit from hearing
information (lectures,
audio, discussions,
video, explainations)
 Kinesthetic learners
benefit from action
(case studies,
demonstrations,
application)
Discussing
Get involved in online
discussions. Contribute
more than minimum
requirements. Provide
feedback to others and
use the opportunity to
have a meaningful
conversation about the
topic.
Reflecting
Take time to reflect on
the lessons from the
class and what you
learn. How will the
material help you in a
future class, job, or
career?
Make Connections

Learn more about your
own learning style and
find helpful strategies to
incorporate into your
study plan by visiting
VARK: a guide to
learning styles.
 Complete the free
Questionairre to learn
your style.
 Review the Helpsheets
for tips and strategies.
6

Avoid feeling isolated or
alone by connecting with
others.

Look for opportunities to
connect with your
academic department or
program through social
networking sites like
Facebook or online
communities like
LinkedIn.

Find ways to connect
with the University. If you
live close by, attend
extracurricular activites
or join a student club.
 The Boise State B
Social website provides
easy ways to connect
with a variety of
services, offices, clubs,
and organizations.

Connect to the course
content by applying what
you learn to real life
situations.
 Is there a way illustrate
a point or concept from
a past experience?
 Is there something from
a previous class that is
relevent and helpful for
your current class?
 Connecting what you
learn to your own
experiences makes the
time spent in class
more relevant and
lasting.
Reach Out

Get to know your
classmates.
 If you live close to
some of them you
might consider forming
a study group.
 Separated by distance?
There are many ways
to collaborate using
Blackboard or the
Internet.

Don't wait to ask for help.
Your instructors,
classmates, and Boise
State staff members, are
all sources you can turn
to for support.
 If you feel
overwhelmed, have a
question about the
class, are not sure
about a deadline, or
anything else
remember to ask:
 Your classmates
 Your Instructors
 Your Academic
Advisors
 Program
Coordinators
 Or other campus
representatives

Not sure where to begin?
 Visit the eCampus
website to learn more
about the variety of
support available to
eCampus students at
Boise State.
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Boise State University
DEDICATION
Successful online learners dedicate the time and energy required to being successful. Set yourself up for success by
being realistic about your time commitments; don’t take on more than you can handle. Utilize the resources around you
such as your friends and family, classmates, instructors, and other school support resources. Stay positive and surround
yourself with people who want to see you succeed. In this section you will review tips for dedicating yourself to success.
Accept Responsibility

As a college student, you
are ultimately responsible
for your learning
experience.
 Accept the
responsibility and time
commitment that comes
with earning college
credit and completing a
college degree.

Stay motivated
throughout the class, the
semester, and the school
year by setting a series
of mini-goals.
 This will help you stay
on task and remind you
why you are in school.

As a Boise State student:
 You are responsible for
complying with
classroom and program
expectations.
 You are also
responsible for
adhering to the Boise
State Student Code of
Conduct.
 Take a few minutes to
review these
responsibilities so you
know what is expected
of you in the classroom,
in your academic
program, and as a
member of the campus
community.

For more information
review Student Rights
and Responsibilities.
Seek Out Support
Think Positive
Use Your Resources

Going to school is a large
time commitment for you
and for your family.

A positive attitude can go
a long way to help a
stressful situation.

There are many ways to
get help while learning
online.

You may find you have
less time to spend with
friends and family as you
adjust to your new role
as a college student.
 Don't feel guilty about
this; instead share with
your friends and family
why school is important
to you and what your
educational goals are.
 Ask friends and family
to help keep you on
task and motivated
throughout the
semester.
 Remember to take time
to celebrate
accomplishments and
milestones with those
who support you.

Focusing on the positive
aspect of a situation
takes less energy and is
less stressful than
worrying about the
negative.
 Instead of focusing on a
negative outcome, like
receiving a bad grade
on an assignment,
visualize yourself
succeeding.
 This will both motivate
you and leave you with
less stress.

Classmates and
instructors are a good
resource for questions
about the course.

Utilize the resources
available to all Boise
State students:
 Tutorial Services
provides online study
tips and strategies.
 An online tutoring
service, eTutoring, is
available if you can't
make it to campus to
meet with a tutor.
 Get help with your
writing through the
Writing Center.
 Doing research? The
Albertsons Library has
a wide variety of ways
to access resources
and collections.

A variety of online
resources provide free
access to video tutorials,
online communities, and
more.
 For example:
KhanAcademy.org and
GCFLearnFree.org
offer free tutorials on a
variety of subjects.

Learn more about Boise
State Resources
available to students on
the eCampus website.


Make the time you do
spend with family and
friends count.
 Set aside time each
week to spend quality
time with your friends
and family.
 This will help you stay
connected to your loved
ones and help manage
the stress of school.
Get your family involved
by encouraging them to
connect with Boise State
through New Student
and Family Programs.
7

Remember, you may not
have control over every
situation but you do have
control over your attitude.
 Instead of "It can't be
done" think "It'll be a
challenge."
 Instead of "I can't" think
"I can."

Being positive can be
contagious.
 Encourage those
around you to succeed.
 Provide positive
feedback to your
classmates.

For more information on
Positive Thinking and
Stress Management
review the information
provided by the Mayo
Clinic.
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
Boise State University
BLACKBOARD
Blackboard is a web-based course-management system designed to allow students and faculty to participate in classes
delivered online or to use online materials and activities to complement face-to-face teaching. With Blackboard, instructors
provide students with course content like assignments, activities, and exams; facilitate online discussions in the
Blackboard discussion forums; moderate virtual chat sessions; and more. In this section you will review how to access
Blackboard classes, learn about the tutorial Introduction to eLearning, and overview the major features of Blackboard.
ACCESSING BLACKBOARD CLASSES
Online instructors initiate contact with students by sending out a “Welcome” email. This initial email provides important
course information including but not limited to:








Instructor Introduction
Instructions for accessing the online course website
A copy of the course syllabus
Important course policies
Reminders about university dates and deadlines
Instructor and course expectations
Technical requirements
Support Information
Look for this “Welcome” email before or on the first day of the semester. Once you receive this email, access your online
courses as soon as possible. If you do not receive an email, you should either contact the instructor of the course or the
eCampus Center.
WEB ACCESS
Boise State’s Blackboard site is accessed online at my.BoiseState.edu. After you log in, select the link for Blackboard to
access your Blackboard site. From this site you will access all Blackboard-delivered online classes and find a “Help for
Students” section with links to online tutorials for using Blackboard.
If you experience trouble accessing your Blackboard account you can contact the Help Desk by phone at 208-426-4357 or
by email at helpdesk@boisestate.edu.
MOBILE ACCESS
Blackboard has a mobile application that can be used to access your
online classes.
To access Blackboard mobile follow these steps:
1. Install “Blackboard Mobile Learn” from your mobile device’s app
store.
2. Search for Boise State within the Blackboard Learn app.
3. Log in using your Boise State Blackboard username and
password.
8
The Blackboard mobile app allows you to
connect with your classes, instructors, and
classmates from any mobile device.
However, as with many mobile apps, you may
have limited function when compared to the
web-browser version. For more information
about functions available on Blackboard
Mobile, see Boise State Mobile Learn Testing
Results.
eCampus Center – Extended Studies
Access, Partnership, Quality, Services, Innovation
Boise State University
ELEARNING AT BOISE STATE
Blackboard contains the materials and tools that allow you to interact with course content, your instructor, and other
students. You are expected to know how to use Blackboard; instructors will not teach you how to use Blackboard. If you
have never taken an online course, or are unfamiliar with Blackboard, we strongly recommend the online introductory
tutorial, eLearning at Boise State.
This tutorial is available in two formats:
1. A free, self-paced, noncredit course
a. Take this course if you want to explore the subject by yourself at
your own pace. This option does not include access to an instructor,
interactivity with other students, or assignments.
b. To access this tutorial visit Boise State's Blackboard site and click on
the Guest Access link located underneath the username and
password. Then select the ELearning at Boise State link located
under the My Courses area.
2. An online 1-credit course, UNIV 107: Introduction to eLearning
a. Take this course if you want to learn in an online course setting,
along with other students, facilitated by an instructor.
b. To register for this course, search for UNIV 107 on myBoiseState.
What are Boise State students
saying about UNIV 107:
Introduction to eLearning?
“Every week I learned something
new and exciting.”
“I learned more about my
personality and my learning style.”
“I’m glad I took it!”
In addition to the tutorial listed above, some of the major features of Blackboard are briefly discussed below.
HOME SCREEN
When you first access Blackboard you will see the Home screen. The control frame is the large blue area at the top of the
home screen and contains a Boise State image and navigation buttons that allow you to access Boise State's website,
access Blackboard help, and logout of Blackboard. The learning environment is the area below the control frame and
consists of images, buttons, and tabs that enable you to navigate to different areas within Blackboard.
Within the Learning Environment:
1. The left hand column contains links to various course tools such as Announcements, Calendar, Tasks, Grades,
and Email.
2. The column located in the center contains My Announcements, My Tasks, and My Calendar. These boxes will
show a compiled list of all announcements, tasks, and calendar items from all of your Blackboard courses.
3. The column on the right contains a list of Blackboard courses for which you are currently registered. To access a
course, click on the hyperlink located within the My Courses column.
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COURSE HOMEPAGE AND COURSE MENU
Shown below is the homepage and course menu of the ELearning at Boise State course website. While the location of the
course menu and homepage won’t change, instructors can customize the look and feel of each so courses may look
different from one another.
The course menu appears on the left side of the screen and contains links to materials and tools available within the
course. The course homepage area, located to the right of the course menu, is where content is displayed within a
Blackboard course. Instructors may use this area to display announcements or other course content such as
assignments, class discussions, grades, videos or exams.
The course menu can be displayed as a list of options or as a folder tree. The List View contains buttons and text links
that lead to course content, materials, and tools. The Folder Tree View uses icons and expandable folders to access
course content, materials, and tools. You can toggle between these views using the icons located above the menu.
Below you will see an example of the two different course menus.
List View
Folder Tree View
This menu is
displayed in a
folder tree view
and each folder
has a +/- button
to expand and
collapse the
contents.
Notice the
folder icon
above the
menu is
selected.
This menu is
displayed in a
list view and
contains links to
different areas
of the course.
Notice the list
icon above the
menu is
selected.
COURSE TOOLS AND COURSE CONTENT
Interaction within a Blackboard course is facilitated by a variety of tools and content areas. Course tools give added
functionality to both the instructor and students while different content areas allow information to be gathered from and
exchanged between class members. Tools include Announcements, Calendar, Email, Grades, and Tasks. Course
content includes Assignments, Blogs, Discussions, Exams, and Wikis.
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Below you will find descriptions of course tools and course content available within Blackboard. Click on the icons located
to the left of each description to access an online video tutorial and other helpful hints about that topic.
For more information about accessing tools and content, you can also review the Blackboard Quick Reference Guide
available in Appendix V.
Course Tools
Announcements
• A tool for accessing announcements from your instructor or from the Blackboard administrator.
Access announcements from within a course or from the Blackboard home screen.
Calendar
• An internal tool that your instructor may or may not use to keep track of deadlines. You can also use
this tool to add personal events.
Send Email
• This tool enables you to quickly email your instructor or other members of the class. This tool only
allows you to send, not receive, messages within Blackboard. See BroncoMail to view messages.
My Grades
• With this tool you can view all grades your instructor has posted for you. If a grade is not available or
you have a question about a grade, consult your instructor.
Tasks
• This tool is used to organize projects. You can define task priority and track task status. Add tasks to
create a to-do list within Blackboard.
Course Content Areas
Assignments
• The assignment feature in Blackboard is used to submit documents to your instructor. Similar to an
email attachment, assignments uses a Browse button to locate the file on your computer and a
Submit button to send it.
Blogs
• A blog is similar to a journal. While generally a blog is available for the rest of the class to read and
interact with, it may also be private.
Discussions
• The discussion feature provides students with a space to have asynchronous or synchronous
discussions about course content.
Exams
• Just as an in-person class, you will likely take exams in your online courses. The exam feature
allows you to complete exams created by your instructor. Exams may or may not be password
protected.
Wikis
• A wiki is a collaborative space to work with others on projects. Instructors may set up a wiki space for
you to collaborate with others on a group project.
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STUDENT INFORMATION
ACADEMIC HONESTY, CHEATING, AND PLAGIARISM
Excerpted from the Boise State Undergraduate Catalog on Academic Honesty; for the complete policy on Academic
Honesty, consult the Boise State Undergraduate Catalog:
The university’s goal is to foster an intellectual atmosphere that produces educated, literate people. Because cheating
and plagiarism are at odds with that goal, they shall not be tolerated in any form. You are expected to adhere to the
rules and regulations as set forth in the Student Code of Conduct. Therefore, all work submitted by you must represent
your own ideas and effort; when work does not, you have engaged in academic dishonesty.
Excerpted from the Student Code of Conduct in reference to academic dishonesty, cheating, and plagiarism; for more
information on these topics, including examples and consequences for violations, consult the Student Code of Conduct.
The term “academic dishonesty”
may include cheating, plagiarism,
or other forms of academic
dishonesty. All assignments
submitted by you must represent
your own ideas, concepts, and
current understanding or must cite
the original source. Attempts to
violate the academic integrity of an
assignment do not have to be
successful to be considered
academic dishonesty.
The term “cheating” includes any
action where an individual or group
either carries out or attempts to
carry out dishonest work and/or
where an individual or group either
assists or attempts to assist an
individual or group to carry out
dishonest work. If you are uncertain
whether an action constitutes
cheating, you have a responsibility
to ask the faculty member of the
course for clarification.
The term “plagiarism” at its most
basic level means to steal
someone else’s words,
composition, research, and/or
ideas. Plagiarism is both cheating
and theft. Given the seriousness of
this offense, you have a
responsibility to understand its
meaning and implications for the
academic community. Plagiarism
can be committed in any type of
assignment.
COURSE EVALUATIONS
At the end of each semester, you have the opportunity to evaluate your
courses and instructors. Any feedback provided is completely anonymous
and not made available to the instructors or academic departments until after
final grades are submitted. An email with instructions on how to complete a
course evaluation is sent to your BroncoMail account near the end of the
course.
Instructors and departments review this information to learn what works and
what doesn’t for online learners; providing accurate and constructive feedback
helps ensure the ongoing quality of the Boise State student experience.
Use this opportunity to provide
constructive feedback on both the course
and the instructor. Provide specific
examples of what activities helped or did
not help you understand course concepts;
suggestions for course improvements that
may benefit future learners; identify any
barriers you may have had to learning.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE USE
Each time you access an online course, you are accessing the University’s information technology network. As such you
should be familiar with the policy regarding appropriate use of technology. Below is an excerpt from the Information
Technology (IT) Resource Use policy, for the complete policy consult Information Resource Use.
Boise State University IT resources are intended for official University related purposes, including support of the
University’s instruction, research, and service missions, its administrative functions; and, its student and campus life
activities. Use of Boise State University IT resources must comply with state and federal laws, executive orders and
policies of the State IT Resource Management Council (ITRMC), the Idaho State Board of Education, and Boise State
University.
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ONLINE BEHAVIOR
Communicating and interacting with your instructor and classmates in an online course is quite different from
communicating and interacting in a traditional class. For this reason, you should also familiarize yourself with accepted
conventions of online behavior (often referred to as netiquette).
Practicing good netiquette in an online course is especially important because almost all interactions occur through text.
This means communication cues such as body language, nonverbal cues, and voice tone and inflection are absent from
the conversation. Practice good netiquette by following these guidelines for online interactions.
Be positive and
respectful of
others thoughts
and ideas.
Use proper
language/titles.
Avoid texting or
slang language.
Use effective
communication
by clearly saying
what you mean.
Practice good
manners. Thank
others for their
contributions.
Ask for
clarification if you
are unclear about
what you read.
For more information see Top Five Rules of Netiquette in an Online Course from BrightHub.com or Online Netiquette
Lessons from Grovo.com.
PROCTORED EXAMS
As a student enrolled in online/Internet courses at Boise State University, you may be required to take proctored
examinations. A proctor is an individual who agrees to administer an examination for a student who is unable to travel to
the main Boise State campus. Proctors promote academic fairness and ensure both the integrity and credibility of online
courses and programs.
If you are registered in a course that requires proctored exams and are unable to travel to the main Boise State campus
you must work closely with your instructor and a qualified proctor to make arrangements to complete testing requirements.
For examples of eligible and ineligible proctors see below. For more information about proctored exams, consult your
course syllabus and your instructor.
Examples of eligible proctors:
Examples of ineligible proctors
• Full-time member of the teaching faculty or educational
administrator of a regionally accredited institution of higher
education.
• Full-time staff member at a local college/professional testing
center.
• Full-time school or public librarian.
• School guidance counselor or counseling staff.
• School superintendent, principal, vice principal or other
administrator.
• Corporate educational/training officer.
• Embassy education officer.
• Military base/station education officer, commissioned officer
of higher rank than student, commander or a librarian.
• Relatives or friends with whom you
have a personal relationship outside of
school or business.
• Athletic coach or member of coaching
staff.
• Previous (unless meets above
eligibility qualifications and not a friend
or relative) or current Boise State
students.
• Coworkers, employers or supervisors.
• Spouse or significant other.
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STATEMENT OF SHARED VALUES
Below is an excerpt from the Statement of Shared Values, for the complete statement see the Office of Student’s Rights
and Responsibilities.
Boise State University upholds the following values as the foundation for a civil and nurturing environment. Campus
community members are expected to adhere to these common values (Josephson, 2002).
Academic Excellence – engage in our own learning and
participate fully in the academic community’s pursuit of
knowledge.
Caring – show concern for the welfare of others.
Citizenship – uphold civic virtues and duties that
prescribe how we ought to behave in a self-governing
community by obeying laws and policies, volunteering in
the community, and staying informed on issues.
Fairness – expect equality, impartiality, openness and
due process by demonstrating a balanced standard of
justice without reference to individual bias.
Respect – treat people with dignity regardless of who
they are and what they believe. A respectful person is
attentive, listens well, treats others with consideration
and doesn’t resort to intimidation, coercion or violence to
persuade.
Click image to view Appendix VI – Statement of
Shared Values
Responsibility – take charge of our choices and actions by showing accountability and not shifting blame or taking
improper credit. We will pursue excellence with diligence, perseverance, and continued improvement.
Trustworthiness – demonstrate honesty in our communication and conduct while managing ourselves with integrity
and reliability.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
In conjunction with the Statement of Shared Values, the Student Code of Conduct exists to assist in providing the best
possible learning and living environment for all students.
The University upholds the values of honesty, trust, fairness, civility, respect, and responsibility as the foundation for a
successful academic environment. As a tool, the Student Code of Conduct will help promote growth and learning as you
interact with your environment and accept responsibility for decision-making.
The Boise State University student conduct process will help educate you about your responsibilities as a member of an
academic community and will impose sanctions when your conduct puts the community in jeopardy. For the complete
policy relating to Student Code of Conduct, consult the Student Code of Conduct located on the Office of Student Rights
and Responsibilities website.
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STUDENT ONLINE PRIVACY NOTICE
Email
Participating in an online course requires you be able to send and receive email. Your instructor must be able to
correspond with you though email and may require you to communicate with your classmates through email. By enrolling
in an online course, you are granting the instructor permission to post your name and email address on the course
website or otherwise distribute that information to other students in the class.
Personal Disclosures
Information in electronic form is easily reproduced and distributed. For this reason, you should keep in mind that
information shared in email correspondence, discussion forums, or webpages could be distributed in ways you did not
intend. For instance, if you disclose your phone number in an online discussion, another student could copy that phone
number and distribute it to others outside the class. Likewise, if you use a discussion forum or email to relate a personal
experience to your classmates, expecting it to remain private, it could be copied and distributed to others outside that
group. Therefore, you should exercise extreme caution in sharing information you would not want made public.
Information about You
Each time to access and interact within your Blackboard course, your activity is logged. You instructor and Boise State
Blackboard administrators have access to information related to the course and your activity within the course such as the
number of times you logged onto the site, the areas you visited, and the dates and times you visited them.
This information may be used in a variety of ways. One common way is to assist the instructor in making the course
website easier to use and more useful for students; if students aren’t using certain features or visiting certain areas, the
instructor can use this information to modify the site accordingly.
Another common use of this information is to measure and grade your participation in class by analyzing the amount of
time spent in certain areas of the site or by analyzing the quality and quantity of your contributions to online discussions.
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APPENDIX
APPENDIX I – ONLINE CLASS EXPLORATION CHECKLIST
As you explore your online class pay particular attention to the items below. Write the name of your class in the top row.
Below, in the same column, indicate if you find the corresponding information. This information may be included in a
“Welcome” message sent from the instructor, within the class syllabus, or available as class resources within Blackboard.
If you do not find the information and have questions, be sure to ask the instructor for clarification.
Accessibility
Learner
Support
Course
Technology
Class
Interaction
Resources &
Materials
Assessment
&
Measurement
Learning
Objectives
General
Overview &
Introduction
Class Name
Example:
Class A
I received instructions to access the online
class site.
I can easily navigate the class site.
I received and read the syllabus.
I reviewed the add/drop deadlines for the class.
I found and read the learning objectives for the
class.
I understand what knowledge or skills I will gain
from this class.
I found and read the grading policy.
I understand the types of activities I will
complete in the class.
I am aware of proctored exams requirements, if
any.
No proctored
exams for this
class.
I reviewed the resources and materials required
for the class.
I can open any documents or links posted by
the instructor.
I purchased any required texts and supplies.
Ordered today
from bookstore
Expectations for class interactions and online
behavior are clear.
I understand how I am expected to interact with
the instructor and other students.
Review
netiquette
policy
I have access to the necessary technology
required for the course.
I understand how to use and know where to
seek assistance for using technology.
I can access library resources from the class
site.
I can access tutoring services.
I can access technical support.
Ask instructor
about this
I received instructions to contact the Boise
State Disability Resource Center if I need
accommodation for a documented disability.
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APPENDIX II – STUDY PLAN TEMPLATE
Directions:
1. Identify blocks of time each day to devote to each class - aim for 2 hours total for each course.
2. Review your course schedule to determine the class activities you need to complete during the week.
3. Fill out your five day study plan with activities and time blocks (template on next page).
4. Begin working on activities.
5. Repeat 5 day planning each week.
Day One
5 Day Study Plan Format
Day Two
Day Three
Day Four
Day Five
Activity (1st block
of time), Activity
(2nd block of
time)
Activity (1st block
of time), Activity
(2nd block of
time)
Activity (1st block
of time), Activity
(2nd block of
time)
Activity (1st block
of time), Activity
(2nd block of
time)
Class
Sunday
Example 5 Day Study Plan
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
English 101
Finish Chapter 1
(9 - 10), Post
discussion
response on
Blackboard (10 11)
Respond to
online
discussions (12 1), Review
chapter 1 (7 - 8)
Review
discussion posts
online (12 - 1),
Begin draft of 1st
essay (7 - 8)
Submit essay
draft to writing
center for review
(12 - 1), Take
chapter 1 quiz (7
- 8)
Review writing
center
comments/revise
draft (9 - 10),
Begin Chapter 2
(10 - 11)
Math 143
Complete
problems from
Chapter 2 (1 - 2),
Meet with tutor
for help with
questions (2 - 3)
Finish chapter 3
problems and
submit to
instructor (3 - 4),
Study section A
of chapter 2 for
quiz (8 - 9)
Study section B
of chapter 2 for
quiz (3 - 4),
Review section A
of chapter 2 for
quiz (7 - 8)
Review section B
of chapter 2 for
quiz (3 - 4), Take
practice quiz (7 8)
Meet with tutor to
answer questions
from practice quiz
(1 - 2), Take
online quiz for
chapter 2 (4 - 5)
Class Name
Activity (1st block
of time), Activity
(2nd block of
time)
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APPENDIX III – CALENDAR TEMPLATE
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
September
August
Sun
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Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
November
October
Sun
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Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
January
December
Sun
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Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
March
February
Sun
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Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
May
April
Sun
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Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
July
June
Sun
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APPENDIX IV – CONTACT LIST TEMPLATE
Name
Email
Phone
Website
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APPENDIX V - BLACKBOARD QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
Supported Browsers
Completing a Course Assignment
Review list of Supported Operating Systems and Web
Browsers
1. Click your Assignment Announcement OR
2. Click the Content area where your instructor has the
assignment posted in your course menu
3. Click the Assignment link
4. Follow Assignment Instructions
5. Optional: Attach an Assignment File
a) Click Attach File (YOU MUST COMPLETE THIS
STEP or YOUR PROFESSOR WILL NOT
RECEIVE YOUR FILE)
b) WARNING: Do not use extended characters (!,
@, #, $, etc.) or blank spaces in your file name.
6. Click Submit
7. Note: It is possible that your instructor has set up
this assignment for multiple attempts. This allows
you and the instructor to exchange files.
Changing Your Password
Blackboard passwords are managed through
my.BoiseState. Passwords may be changed or reset by
going to http://my.boisestate.edu and clicking on
“Create/Reset Password.” NOTE: Password and login
issues are handled by the Registrar’s Office.
Taking a Test
1. Within a course site, click Tools
2. Click Announcements OR
3. Click the Content area where your instructor has the
Test posted in your course menu
4. Click the link to the Test
5. Click Begin to start your Test
6. Note: SAVE your answers occasionally by clicking
Save All Answers
7. Note: You can view your question completion status
by clicking Test/Survey Status below your Test
instructions. This will display across the top of the
page as you complete your test. This will also
display the Timer if your instructor has that feature
enabled.
8. Note: Do not try to view other webpages during your
test. This can automatically submit your test without
submitting your answers.
9. Click Save and Submit when complete
Creating a Thread in a Discussion Board
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Within a course site, click Tools
Click Discussion Board
Click the forum you wish to participate
Click Create thread
Enter Thread Subject
Enter Thread Message
Optional: Attach a file.
Click Submit
Sending Email
1. Within a course site, click Tools
2. Click Send Email
3. Select Addressees made available by your
instructor.
4. Enter your message text
5. Optional: Attach a file
6. Click Submit
7. Note: You can only SEND Email.
Viewing your Course Grades
1. Within a course site, click Tools
2. Click My Grades
3. View Grades and detail made available by your
instructor.
Creating a Journal entry
Viewing Course Announcements
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
1. Within a course site, click Tools
2. Click Announcements
3. View your course Announcements
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Within a course site, click Tools
Click Journals
Click Create Journal Entry
Enter Journal Entry Information
Optional: Attach a file.
Click Post Entry
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Creating a Blog entry
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Boise State University
Other Resources
Within a course site, click Tools
Click Blogs
Click Create Blog Entry
Enter Blog Entry Information
Optional: Attach a file.
Click Post Entry
Online Testing center
Before taking an exam at the Online testing center
review the Online testing center policies in the Student
Policies section of the Testing Center website.
Scheduling an exam at the Online Testing center –
Before taking an exam at the Online testing center you
can schedule a time using the online testing scheduler.
Accessing Blackboard Mobile
my.BoiseState.edu
Blackboard usernames and passwords can be reset
using myBoiseState or by calling 208-426-2932.
1. Search for “Blackboard Mobile Learn” in your app
store
2. Once Blackboard Mobile Learn is installed, search
for “Boise State” in the search bar that
automatically appears when you open the app
3. Select “Boise State University”
4. Log in with the username and password you
normally use to access Blackboard
Help Desk
For assistance with computer problems, contact the OIT
Help Desk or by calling 208-426-4357.
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APPENDIX VI – STATEMENT OF SHARED VALUES
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