Synchronous Communication
From FerrisConnect KnowledgeBase
Synchronous communication tools include Chat (which also has a built-in Whiteboard feature, and "Who's Online" - a one-to-one chat environment similar to instant messaging applications.
Learning outcomes
When finished with this section the learner will be able to...
- create and edit chat and whiteboard rooms
- chat with another user via who's online
Using Chat
The Chat tool is combined with the Whiteboard feature in FerrisConnect. Instructors and students can communicate in real-time with this these tools using text, images, and drawing tools. In order for the Chat feature to work properly an approved browser and Java version must be installed on the user's computer.
Activity - Adding a Chat Room Select "chat" from the Course Tools menu under the Teach tab. Create a new chat room by clicking on the Create Chat or Whiteboard room, Entitle the new chat room, "Office Hours".
Who's Online
The Who's Online feature may be access from both the my Blackboard and course section interfaces. All courses and groups a member belongs to are displayed in their My Blackboard account. The number of users currently online is shown in parenthesis.
Activity - Chat with another FerrisConnect User Within the My Blackboard interface click on a course or section listed under Who's Online. Invite a classmate, or instructor to chat by clicking on the "Send Chat Invitation" button. If there is no one available within the "who's Online", send a Mail message to your facilitator and arrange for a time to chat.
