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Using Collaboration Tools

Step 1: To begin using the Collaboration Tools, you must first be in your course. Click on the Communication menu item or button.

Step 2: In the content frame, click on Collaboration.

Step 3: At this point you can search for previous session archives, join a Virtual Classroom or Chat session. To join a Virtual Classroom session click on the word Join.

Step 4: The Virtual Classroom has many features and functions. Along the top menu bar you will see three icons.

• View icon: allows you to choose an option for viewing personal messages.

  • Choosing the Show in-line option, allows you to view private messages within the chat area.

  • Select Show in separate frame to view private messages in a separate window.

• Clear icon: clears the session display.

• Breakouts icon: allows you to create a breakout room for a group of users.

Step 5: Step 5: The Virtual Classroom has many features and functions. To use the Whiteboard (area highlighted in pink), click on the Tools tab and your options are located directly below the Tools tab (yellow arrow). From left to right the functions of the icons are as follows:

• arrow key: allows you to select items on the whiteboard

• slanted line tool: allows you to draw straight lines

• pen tool: allows you to draw freehand

• Σ icon: to input an equation

• square icon: to draw a square

• circle tool: to draw a circle

• text tool (T): to type text

Below the tools you have the option to change fill color of a circle or square, change pen color, adjust width of line, and change font (text) size and type.

Step 6: To use the chat feature, click in the box next to the word compose (green arrow) and type your message and then click on the Send button at the end of the text box.

The Course Map enables users to browse the Course Contents while they are in a Virtual Classroom session.

Step 7: To use the Group Browser, click on Group Browser and enter the URL (in the textbox under Enter Address) you wish to show to the class.

Step 8: To ask a question, click on 'Ask Question' and type your question in the text book below labeled 'Enter Question'.

Step 9: The 'Question Inbox' is used to manage and respond to questions during a Collaboration Session. To respond to a question, click the user name in the 'From' list and click the 'Respond to Question' icon. The 'Respond to Question' pop-up window will appear.

Step 10: You also may have the option to participate in a chat only. This area is accessed the same way as the Virtual Classroom. Repeat steps 1 & 2 and click on the Join button on the same line as the word Chat. You now have access to the chat room without the whiteboard, group web browser, and other associated tools. Type your message in the box next to the word Compose and then click Send. This will send your message to the chat window.

Warning: Both the Virtual Classroom and the Chat take a while to load so if you are connecting to your class using a dial-up connection, you will need to be patient.