•When entering text, by default, Blackboard will format text to 12-point, left-justified Arial. Any other formatting must be done with HTML tags or by using the Text Box Editor. (For instructions on how to use the Text Box Editor, refer to the “Blackboard Academic Suite User Manual,” Chapter 3, available online at http://behind.blackboard.com/docs/r6/6_1/student/bbls_r6_1_student.
•When entering text, use the 
Spell Check feature. The Spell Check feature supports a full English dictionary, a supplemental word list configured by the System Administrator, and custom word lists that are stored as a cookie on a user’s local machine. (For instructions on how to use the Spell Check feature, refer to the “Blackboard Academic Suite User Manual,” Chapter 3, available online at http://behind.blackboard.com/docs/r6/6_1/student/bbls_r6_1_student.
•Make it a habit to check your Hamline e-mail account (NetMail or GroupWise) often and maintain your inbox. This is the e-mail address Hamline University uses to send you official university notices and other correspondence from the school (class cancellations, registration information, updates, etc.). This is also the e-mail address that the instructor in this course will use to contact you. (Refer to the handout “Hamline University’s Information Technology Services and Resources” for information about the Hamline e-mail account.)
•You must have a contingency plan to complete coursework in case you experience computer problems at home or work. Computers in all Hamline University public computer labs have the features and software required to use Blackboard.
You must also think about ways to keep up with your coursework when you are away from work, home and/or campus. Public libraries, most motels, and Kinko’s establishments offer access to the Internet.
•Most documents posted in Blackboard will be in PDF (Adobe Acrobat), MS Word, MS Excel, or MS PowerPoint format. If you do not have the required software to work with files in these formats, download the viewers/plug-ins (free software).
•Keep your virus protection (antivirus) software current. Blackboard does not provide virus checking and protection. Hamline provides antivirus software for students. Free download of antivirus software is available in the Piperline secure area. (Refer to the handout “Hamline University’s Information Technology Services and Resources” for information about how to download antivirus software from Piperline.)
•If there is information (a file, a link, etc.) that you want to share with the members of your cohort, submit it to the instructor(s). The instructor(s) will make it available to everyone through Blackboard.
•If you still need help after reviewing this handout and the online manual, contact the Blackboard Support Team (see information below).
Need more help? Please contact the Help Desk by email or by phone at 651-523.2220
