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FAQ
Using Blackboard
The following is a checklist of the minimum hardware and software you will need to have access to and be familiar with, in order to successfully complete an on-line class.
- A computer with at least the following: Windows XP or newer
- 56K modem (Broadband preferred)
- Sound card and speakers (a microphone might also be useful)
- Monitor with at least 800 x 600 resolution
- Access to the Internet
- An email program/account that can send and receive attachments (your MyPima student email account will allow you to do this)
- Word processing software that has a spell checker (such as Microsoft Word or Word Perfect)
- Virus Control Software (Such as Norton or McAfee)
You may register for an online class via MyPima or at any PCC Campus or Center just as you would for a traditional class.
You will access your online classes through MyPima. Click on the MyPima icon on the College home page to access the login page. If this is the first time that you are accessing MyPima, click on the "Activate My Account" link to discover your username and set your password.
To find your homepages for all of your classes:
- log into MyPima,
- click on the "Academics" tab
- click on the link in the "My Courses" channel
- click on your course title.
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- Most of the classes require you to purchase textbooks. You can purchase textbooks at the PCC bookstore.
- Some of the classes also require software, lab kits, study aides, or audio tapes.
- The cost of supplemental materials is an additional cost beyond the cost of class.
- Your instructor's online syllabus will explain what you need for your class and how to get it.
- The curriculum of the classes is identical to face-to-face classes; only the mode of delivery and activities may vary.
The majority of communication will take place via email.
- Because email is the main method of communication between you, the instructor, and the other students, be sure to check your email frequently.
- Additionally, some classes use threaded discussions and chat rooms.
- Some instructors have phone policies and/or office hours. Please see your instructor's syllabus for further details.
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- This varies by class; most assignments will be submitted over the Internet, through the use of forms, while many others will be handled via email. A few may be mailed or faxed.
- Each class will provide specific directions on how to submit particular assignments.
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- Yes, there will be deadlines, just as in traditional classes. Timelines will vary according to each class; see the assignment schedule for your class for specific due dates.
Some instructors will give quizzes and exams while others will use other modes of assessment. See the syllabus for your class for further information.
- For those classes that do have quizzes and exams, some of the assessments are done online while a few will be in person. Look at the syllabus and/or assignment schedule for more specific information for your class.
- If it is impossible for you to come to campus to take an exam, inform your instructor and he/she will work with you to make other arrangements having similar security.
- Online classes cost exactly the same as face-to-face classes. Check the college catalog or semester schedule for a list of fees.
- Additionally, you will need to pay for an Internet Service Provider (if you are accessing the class from your home computer) and any necessary supplemental materials, which vary by class.
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- The College provides online advising to assist distance learners. Through online advising, you can readily contact an advisor and quickly find much of the information regarding PCC that you will need as a student.
- The open-access computer labs on all of PCC's campuses and centers have computers with Internet access.
- Many local libraries also have computers with similar access.
- Ask your friends and neighbors if you may borrow a computer, or do your work from their home.
- You should have some experience with browsing the Internet and sending and receiving email with attachments.
- You may want to consider completing CSA151 (Introduction to the Internet for New Computer Users), or an equivalent Internet introductory class prior to enrolling in an online class if you do not already have some Internet and email experience.
- If you can't connect to MyPima, call the MyPima HelpDesk at (520) 206-4800 on Monday - Friday, 8:15-4:45. You can also send email to mypimahelpdesk@pima.edu.
- If you are able to connect to other sites, but cannot access Blackboard, please contact PCC's Center for Learning Technology at (520) 206-6310 or e-mail pimaonline@pima.edu.
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You will access your online classes through MyPima. Click on the MyPima icon on the College home page to access the login page. If this is your first time accessing MyPima, click on the "Activate My Account" link to discover your username and set your password. You will need to know your student ID number and your birthdate.
To find your class homepages:
- log into MyPima,
- click on the "Academics" tab
- click on the link in the "My Courses" channel
- click on your course title.
If you cannot access your online course homepage on the first day of class, contact us at PimaOnline@pima.edu or call (520) 206-6310.
Many personal firewall programs have features that prevent pop-up windows. Pop-up windows are used in Blackboard. When using Blackboard you will have to disable the pop-up window suppression feature of your program. Consult the user manual or Internet site for the particular program regarding instructions for doing this.
Blackboard class materials may use various multimedia formats such as sound and videos. These require additional sub-programs called browser "plug-ins". Instructions for installing the most common plug-ins are given in the Browser Tune-up section of the Blackboard commercial site.
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