Wimba

When comparing, to the collaboration tools within Blackboard, Wimba offers a larger virtual whiteboard, better response time, video with "follow the speaker" technology and chat, as well as the ability to share a desktop or a desktop applications.

Wimba is accessed though the "Communication" Menu item, upon entering Blackboard it is on the left side of the screen.

All instructors have the ability to "Create a Room."

Enter the Name and Description. By clicking the small arrow under each section, more options for your room will be displayed.

After the room is created, click on the room name.

After choosing the room, click the Setup Wizard. This only needs to be done the first time you use Wimba on your computer.

To successfully complete the Set up Wizard you will need:

• Java installed on your computer. You can download Jave at no cost from: .
  http://www.java.com/en/download/index.jsp
  
  
• Pop up Blocker, must be disabled. Instructions for the two most common browsers are as followed.
  
  Internet Explorer;
  In Internet Explorer go to the "Tools" menu followed by "Internet Options," then click on the "Privacy" tab and uncheck the box marked "Turn on pop-up blocker"
  
  Mozilla Firefox;
  Firefox users will need to click on "Tools", the "Options" and uncheck "Block pop-up windows" under the "Content" tab.

Simply follow the directions as the setup wizard runs. After the first couple of check marks, you will be given directions on how to complete the wizard and will be required to click "Next" in order to continue.

Once the setup is successful you are ready to, "Enter the Room"

For detailed information on how to use Wimba for your class, please refer to:

http://www.wimba.com/solutions/higher-education/

If you would like to add Wimba features to content area:

1. Go to the Control Panel, select the Content Area where you wish to add a feature.
2. On the Content Area page, a small drop-down menu may be available in the upper right-hand corner. If it is not, click the Edit View link that appears in this location.
3. Click the Select drop-down menu. Your available Wimba features appear in the list.
4. Select the feature you wish to add the Content Area.
5. Click the Go button the the right of the pull-down menu.

If you would like to have a link to Wimba from your course menu, follow these steps:

1. Access the Control Panel.
2. From the Course Options menu, click Mange Course Menu.
3. Click the Tool link in the Add bar. The Set Area Properties page appears.
4. Select the Wimba Classroom List from the Type drop-down menu.
5. Enter an appropriate title in the Name box.
6. Click Submit.