1. Access the Blackboard site (easiest via the course web site).
2. Click on "Discussion Board" in the right frame.
3. Click on the Forum you want to post in. All Forums have descriptions, so make sure you are entering the proper one (for example, that is the appropriate group or assignment)
4. If you want to start a new "thread," click on "Add New Thread" in the box in the right hand corner. Be sure to add an appropriate subject line (most of my assignments require a specific subject line). Type the contents of your posting in the "Message" area. I find for all but the quickest postings, it is best to compose in your word processing program (such as Word), edit and spellcheck the writing there, and then cut and paste when ready to post. It's easier to work with, can be saved in case of crashes, and remains on your computer for later reference.
5. If you need to add a document as an attachment, see the appropriate instructions on the course web site.
6. If you click "Preview," you can see what your posting will look like up on the board, but you may not edit in that view. You will need to return to your main posting page. (Click "OK" to remove the Preview view). There is also a Spellcheck function button.
7. When you are sure you want to post, click "Submit." In most cases, you will not be able to edit or remove your posting once it is sent. (If the Forum allows this I will announce it in the Forum description.) You should see your posting appear right away. It's a good idea to click on the subject line to open it, both to make sure everything came out OK and to remove it as a "new" posting. You will notice that in the Forum view, the number of unread ("new") messages appears.
8. If you want to reply to someone's posting, click on the subject line and then click on the "Reply" button on the right. Follow the same procedure. (You can also reply to a reply, etc.) Choose the appropriate level of reply. If your comment has to do mainly with the original posting or multiple replies, reply to the original posting. If your comment has to do with a specific reply (or a reply to a reply, etc.), then reply to that posting. Do not simply add a posting by clicking indiscriminately. A well-structured board makes it easier for participants to follow the conversation in an order that makes sense.
9. You may email the person who posted directly by clicking on their name. Sometimes it is more appropriate to send an email than post to the group (for example, simple affirmations like "I really enjoyed your posting!" Fun to receive, perhaps, but a drag for the entire class to read.

If you have any problems or questions with Blackboard, contact Andreas Brockhaus, the Blackboard administrator. Andreas's e-mail:abrockhaus@bothell.washington.edu. Andreas's phone: 425-352-5393. "CC" me on the email message.

© 2001 Michael Lewis Goldberg: intellectual property information

MLG HOME

Back to Top