Conclusions

blackboard > about blackboard > fall 2000 faculty survey > conclusions

The survey and interviews clarified that the priority need of faculty is to have a tool that supplements their traditional course offerings rather than one that delivers most or all course elements online. Blackboard was deemed to be an appropriate tool for the needs of this population.

The pilot study identified some problems with the product and problems with its implementation. Some of the more pressing software problems were rectified when the University upgraded to the latest version of Blackboard. Also, it is anticipated that the product will continue to evolve. However, currently there continues to be a need for an improved grade book (i.e., one that allows spreadsheet uploads and calculation of data fields), better archiving functionality, and enhanced quiz creation capability.

From an institutional standpoint, the most pressing needs are to improve access (i.e., page load times), to minimize server downtime, and to reconcile data issues (i.e., different sources for e-mail field).

System administrators would welcome the addition of a reporting function that provides a census of active courses so that all active users can be identified and therefore be given the opportunity to provide feedback.

A number of instructors complained about the inability to significantly customize the Blackboard interface. Others have advanced pedagogical needs. These two issues offer evidence that the University should continue to support WebCT, a course management system that is currently more pedagogically robust and customizable. As both products evolve and become more alike, it may be that the University will opt to choose one over the other, but until then it is imperative that the CIT continue support for both WebCT and Blackboard.