Virtual Office

Blackboard Collaborate is a web conferencing product that will allow online teachers and students an opportunity for real-time eLearning. Through this resource, you will be able to "talk" with your instructor or your classmates. It is best to have a microphone for this, but you can type your responses. You must have speakers or headphones to hear your instructor. A headphone with a microphone is best. With comprehensive tools and capabilities, Blackboard Collaborate allows you to engage in the virtual classroom as if you were meeting face-to-face.

 

Visit the Blackboard Collaborate Participant Help web site to setup your computer for Blackboard Collaborate, view video tutorials, and download the participant's guide. It is recommended that you configure your computer and become familiar with Blackboard Collaborate before you attend a course session. In addition, access your first scheduled session at least 15 minutes before the session starts so you can resolve any technical issues or updates before the session begins.

 

From your course menu, click Virtual Office. This takes you to the Blackboard Collaborate screen where you can choose Scheduled Sessions or Recordings. The example below shows a Scheduled Session. You would click on the session title to view the Room Details and to Join Room. If you are not able to participate in the session or want to view the information again, check Recordings to see if the session was recorded.

 

 

Tutoring 

Any student experiencing academic difficulties in general core or certain entry level occupational courses may receive tutoring services free of charge. The student should first contact the course instructor. Often, the instructor can assist the student after class or at some other mutually convenient time. If the instructor cannot provide the assistance needed, the student should contact the Academic Achievement Center or click on the Tutor.com link on the course menu..

We do understand that some of our online students may not be able to come on campus for a tutoring session. As an enrolled Albany Tech student, you should see a Tutoring.com link in your Blackboard course that gives you access to online tutors that are available 24/7 and free of charge! Also, your Albany Tech instructor or tutor has the option of using a virtuaoffice. Be sure you complete the steps in the Virtual Room section of this orientation so you can be prepared for the virtual tutoring opportunity.