Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning

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ONLINE LEARNING

GUIDEBOOK

FOR STUDENTS

Blackboard 9.1

LYNN

UNIVERSITY

IT Support Services

561-237-7979

hthttps://itsupport.lynn.edu

Juliet S Juan

Blackboard System Administrator

561-237-7850

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Lynn University Portal (myLynn) and

Blackboard Login Page:

http://www.lynn.edu/mylynn

First time users: go to logon help on the front page of myLynn and select “Create myLynn account”

YOUR USERNAME WILL BE YOUR FIRST INITIAL FOLLOWED BY YOUR LAST NAME—ALL LOWERCASE LETTERS (jsmith for example)

Please note: There will be regularly scheduled maintenance of the

Blackboard Learning Management System. Please watch for announcements

to this effect.

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1. Overview

WELCOME TO ONLINE LEARNING

This manual covers most aspects of Online or Distance Learning at Lynn University. Please review all of the information provided and keep this manual for future reference. All online courses are available through the Blackboard Learning Management System at the following URL:

http://www.lynn.edu/mylynn

First time users: go to logon help on the front page of myLynn and select “Create myLynn account” You will need your username (first initial and last name, no spaces and no caps) You will need your student ID and your date of birth You will be able to create your own password

To access the Blackboard Learning Management System, click on the Academics tab to access your course(s). If at any time during your career as a Lynn University online student, you require

additional assistance, please contact Lynn University Help Desk at the numbers listed below. Good Luck in your studies as a Lynn University online student.

For further information or technical support, please contact:

Lynn University IT Help Desk: (561) 237‐7979 - https://itsupport.lynn.edu

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2. Minimum Computer Equipment and Skills

Basic requirements

1. All students must have reliable access to a computer. Learners must also have the opportunity to utilize this computer for extended periods each day of the week.

2. A minimum 56 Kbps modem or faster connection to the Internet is required. A high-speed broadband connection (DSL or Cable) is highly recommended.

3. Microsoft Office is the only supported office suite at Lynn University. Students must be proficient in Microsoft Word and must have the ability to view and create Microsoft Office files. Lynn University does not support Microsoft Works or WordPerfect.

2.1 Minimum Computer System Requirements

PC (Windows Based)

Processor:

Minimum: Pentium III (3) or equivalent, 700-MHz Recommended: Pentium IV, 2.2-GHz or better. Memory (RAM):

Minimum: 512 MB Recommended: 2 GB+ Operating System:

Minimum: Windows XP Home or Pro, Service Pack 2

Recommended: Windows Vista or Windows 7 with Service Pack 1 Apple Processor: iMac or G series Memory (RAM): Minimum: 2GB Recommended: 4GB

Operating System: Mac OS X 10.6 or above

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2.2 Minimum Computer Skills

Students often wonder whether online learning is right for them. Learners may ask themselves what special skills are required in order to be a successful online learner. On a technical level, online students must be able to achieve the following:

1. Operate a Windows‐based personal computer including CPU, keyboard, mouse, CD/DVD ROM, and printer.

2. Perform common computer operations including: a. Create folders/directories

b. Find, copy, move, rename and delete files c. Launch and switch between multiple programs d. Create backup files or save to a network drive 3. Use Microsoft Word to:

a. Create, edit, format, spell‐check, save, retrieve, and print a document b. Copy and paste information within and between documents

c. Save a document in various formats

4. Use Microsoft Outlook or other email application to: a. Send, receive, store, and retrieve messages

b. Send, receive, and open file attachments c. Manage mailbox size

5. Configure and utilize Internet Explorer or other web browser to:

a. Access the Internet (via dial‐up modem, DSL, cable modem, or network interface card) b. Open and print web pages

c. Open, print, and save Adobe Acrobat files (pdf)

d. Create and maintain a list of web pages (Favorites/Bookmarks) e. Copy URLs to Microsoft Word

f. Use a search engine (Google) or directory (Yahoo) to find information on the Internet

Remember: Technical competence alone will not make a student a successful online learner. Online learning is both an opportunity and a challenge‐‐an opportunity to take courses in a flexible learning environment and a challenge to direct individual studies. Online learning requires self‐discipline and persistence. Online students need strong and effective planning skills to make the best use of their study time.

Online learners will also find that the ability to research topics effectively and efficiently is beneficial, especially in graduate‐level courses. In addition, many courses take advantage of "collaborative learning" strategies. Online students may find that teamwork skills are important. The

rewards to students who learn to manage their time and their education while learning from a distance are great. Online students take some of Lynn University's finest courses at a time and location that is convenient to their lifestyle!

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2.3 Online Learner Responsibilities and Keys to Success

1 As an online learner, it is extremely important to manage your time and stay current on readings, activities, and work required in each weekly unit or module.

2 Make sure to complete all assignments, forum discussions, and activities detailed in the syllabus and in the Assignments area in the time and manner set by the instructor.

3 Always participate in your course as an individual and only as yourself. Under no circumstances is another person allowed to participate on behalf of someone else or share access rights with another person. Keep your password secure and change your password on a regular basis.

4 All projects, assignments, or writings presented as part of a course should be original in nature and the property of the student presenting them. Learners must always cite sources with appropriate

bibliographic references.

5 Notify the instructor in writing if you are unable to adhere to the course requirements due to unforeseen circumstances. Make requests for accommodations as soon as possible.

6 Participate and communicate! If you do not complete activities and /or communicate with your instructor for a period of two weeks, access to your course may be denied and you may even be removed from the course.

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3. Frequently Asked Questions

3.1 How will this be different from taking a course on campus?

Even though online courses take place in a different environment than face‐to‐face courses, there are actually many ways in which these two types of learning are similar. For example, instructors facilitate each online course, students interact in the online classroom, and learners utilize various types of course materials. However, an online course allows more flexibility than a face‐to‐face class. Online learners work through course content at a time and place that is convenient to them. In the end, the amount of time spent in an online learning course is roughly equivalent to the amount of time spent in a face‐to‐face course.

The flexibility enjoyed as an online learner has another important aspect to consider. This type of

educational environment requires more self‐initiative than traditional face‐to‐face instruction. In an online course, learners must pay close attention to the course schedule and due dates in order to stay current in the class. Since students are studying at a distance, it is easy to put off studying to attend to other

responsibilities that may seem more pressing at the time. Since online courses do not take any less time than equivalent on‐campus courses, students can get behind and feel overwhelmed very quickly. The key to success in an online course is developing a personal schedule for completing assignments and working at a steady pace throughout the course. It is important to note that students are not alone when taking an online course. Online students are part of the Lynn University community.

3.2 What are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning?

Online learning is different from traditional "in‐person" classroom learning. There are many pros and cons to pursuing this form of education.

Advantages

Online learners can determine time and place of study Opportunity to develop technology competencies Access to global resources and experts Increased interaction with classmates Online learners can access course from home or work Response from instructor is personalized

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Increased amount of interaction between instructor and online learner Disadvantages

Online learners must be more active and self directed in the learning environment Time and frustration involved in learning how to use technology

Occasional Internet Service Provider (ISP) downtime Occasional feelings of isolation

3.3 What is an online course like?

Online learning courses come in a variety of formats. However, all courses are accessible via the Internet using the Blackboard Learning Management System as detailed in this manual.

3.4 How are assignments submitted?

Throughout a student’s educational career, he or she is likely to have completed a wide variety of assignments, from worksheets and term papers to presentations and portfolios. Students encounter the same variety of assignments in online courses.

The only difference is the method of submission for online learning assignments. When taking a course at a distance, it is not possible to personally hand in a term paper or deliver a presentation live in front of the class. However, in an online course there are alternative methods to reach the same goal. For example, students might email an assignment or term paper, they might videotape a presentation and post the video in the online course, or they may submit papers or presentations in the course delivery system using Turnitin.com...there are many options.

Students receive specific instructions on how to submit each assignment in an online course. Once the instructor receives an assignment, he or she will grade it and provide feedback. Once again, the only difference is in the way online students receive feedback. Since the instructor will be at a distance, learners may receive feedback via email or through the online grade book. Remember, there is nothing "virtual" about an online learning instructor‐‐students will still be able to ask questions about the feedback received.

3.5 How is learning assessed in an online course?

In the absence of face‐to‐face interaction with an online learning instructor,

students may wonder about the assessment of their learning. For example, how will the instructor know whether individual students are actively participating and learning the material? Online courses use many of the same assessment strategies as on‐campus courses including self‐check exercises, quizzes, exams, papers, projects, and class participation.

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Online assessment techniques accomplish the same learning goals or outcomes as on‐campus courses. For example:

Online quizzes that are automatically scored, complete with detailed feedback Course projects completed as part of a collaborative team

Research papers "presented" online by posting to the online course (and perhaps even defended through an online discussion)

Virtual lab experiments that allow students to manipulate data in order to test hypotheses

Participation in small group discussions

Self‐check (non‐graded) activities such as quizzes that allow students to make sure they are comprehending course material

A variety of activities and assessments let the student and the instructor know that learning is taking place.

3.6 How do learners interact with the instructor and other students?

A student may live in New York while the instructor lives in Florida...and the rest of the online class lives all over the world. How will these students interact with one another? Lynn University uses a variety of means to bring students and instructors together, including:

Online discussion forums (Discussion Boards) Live chat sessions (Virtual Classroom) email Telephone (one‐on‐one and conference calls)

As each online learning course is developed, the instructor selects interaction strategies to meet the needs of the course using the technologies available to the students.

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4. Online Basics

4.1 The Lynn University Online Portal

Lynn University utilizes a web‐based portal known as “MyLynn”. This portal serves as a starting point for accessing all resources associated with online courses including the Blackboard Learning Management System, as well as university news and events, student email, and the electronic library.

Access to the Lynn University portal and the Blackboard Learning Management System is available at the following URL:

http://www.lynn.edu/mylynn

4.2 Accessing an online course

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Click the “Academics” tab to access your online course.

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Course home pages vary from course to course. Some possible resources may include:

Announcements Course documents, or lectures A course calendar showing assignment due dates, exam schedules, etc. A course "discussion board" for engaging in discussions, asking

questions, etc. An email system for sending private messages to the instructor and fellow students A list of web sites with course‐related information and resources Chat space where students can engage in real‐time, text‐based discussions with the instructor and fellow students

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4.3 Special Instructions for AOL users

If connecting to the Internet using AOL (American Online) please read this section carefully.

The Institute for Distance Learning highly recommends using Internet Explorer Version 6 or higher or Firefox Version 2 or higher as the web browser for Lynn University online learning courses.

To use Internet Explorer or Firefox with AOL: 1 Sign on to AOL as usual.

2 Once connected, minimize AOL by clicking the _ (minus sign) in the top right corner of the AOL window. Do not close AOL or logout…stay connected.

3 Open a web browser by clicking on the icon, if installed on the desktop, or by clicking: START, PROGRAMS, INTERNET EXPLORER or FIREFOX

4 Keep AOL minimized throughout the session and work only in the web browser.

4.4 Locating online resources

While taking an online learning course, students will need to locate additional information about course topics in order to complete assignments, learn more about difficult concepts, or further explore topics of interest.

A search for information on the Internet typically involves using a search engine. Search engines are special web sites that enable users to search the Internet for a specific piece of information. There are MANY search engines available with a variety of features. Most search engines work in the same manner in that users use a form to type keywords. After selecting the "Search" button, the search engine locates Internet sites that contain a reference to the terms or keywords entered. Users then scan through the search results that link directly to a specific web site.

4.5 Locating resources in the Lynn University Library

The Lynn University Library is available at http://lynn.libguides.com/content.php?pid=2276

Online students need convenient access to library materials from off campus. To help locate and use research sources, students may access the Library Services Manual for Distance Learners at

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All students also have access to a Library Tutorial titled “INL101 LIBRARY AND INFORMATION RESOURCE TUTORIAL” located in the Blackboard Course Management System.

The Lynn Library provides off‐campus connection to all resources available on‐campus. Simply visit the Lynn Library Homepage at http://www.lynn.edu/library for full access to the library catalog, online databases, and to request interlibrary‐loan books and periodical articles. Lynn Library purchases, through netLibrary, over 42,000 e‐books for students to browse and check out.

Additionally, when a reference question needs to be answered from home, either call the Reference desk at 561‐237‐7058 or go to Ask‐a‐Librarian and send an email to our Electronic Librarian. A librarian will provide answers to your research questions within 24 hours.

4.6 Expectations for receiving feedback from online instructors

In a traditional face‐to‐face classroom, students can ask a question of the professor and receive an immediate response. Likewise, students can turn in assignments and know the status of the item with some certainty. For example, if there is any question about whether or not the instructor received an assignment or when feedback will be received, those questions can be raised during class with an immediate response.

Online learning, with its lack of face‐to‐face interaction, makes this process a little trickier. Students can still ask questions of their instructors with ease through email, telephone, or

in the discussion board. However, often the responses are not immediate. Instructors are not sitting next to their telephones or computers, waiting for questions to come through. However, they are available on a regular basis and are able to respond to students in a timely manner. Online students simply need to become familiar with their instructor's schedule and availability so that they have an idea when to expect responses to questions and feedback on coursework.

If there is any question about what to expect in terms of response time from an online instructor, do not hesitate to ask him or her. Alternatively, feel free to contact The Institute for Distance Learning with questions...we are here to help.

4.7 Following proper ‘netiquette’ rules

Online learning courses have many components‐‐online course materials, links to course‐related web sites, email submissions, a discussion board system for posting assignments and asking/answering questions, etc. These components will vary from course to course but a special set of personal conduct rules, commonly referred to as "Netiquette" always applies.

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17 Netiquette rules

Before taking part in online communications, online students should familiarize themselves with the rules of Netiquette. Here are a few rules to get started:

In general, messages should be short and to the point. Electronic forums are not good places to give a dissertation! (On the other hand, students sometimes are required to provide lengthy postings when submitting assignments by email or discussion board.)

Make sure to use meaningful subject lines, so that readers have a clear idea of what the message contains.

Good example ‐"Subject: My feedback on the Taylor article." Poor example ‐"Subject: Interesting Stuff."

Online students must ALWAYS use their assigned Lynn University email to communicate with their instructor. Be sure to reference the course number in the subject line (i.e., ABC 101).

Include a "signature" at the bottom of messages.

A signature footer should include full name and any contact information to be shared (phone number, fax number, etc.).

Use all caps sparingly. Capitalize words only to highlight an important point or to distinguish a title or heading. Capitalizing whole words that are not titles is generally seen as SHOUTING.

Be professional and careful in comments about others.

Electronic messages are easily forwarded. Do not say anything that should not be quoted in the newspaper!

When reacting to another student’s message, address the ideas, not the person. Antagonistic messages are called "flames" and flaming is bad Netiquette.

Be careful when using sarcasm and humor. Without face‐to‐face communications, your jokes may be viewed as criticism. "Emoticons" (tiny pictures made from ordinary characters) can be used to put a personal "face" on messages.

Do not overuse acronyms. Acronyms can be used to abbreviate when possible; however, messages that are filled with acronyms can be confusing and annoying to the reader. Examples:

o IMHO= in my humble/honest opinion o FYI = for your information

o BTW = by the way

Be careful not to get too personal too quickly. Electronic communications environments can seem surprisingly intimate. In just a few exchanges, students might be tempted to share their life story with strangers.

Be respectful of other, diverse opinions.

Remember that the Internet brings people together from around the world. Do not assume that everyone shares the same views, background or culture.

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18 Do not include obscenities in messages.

To get a certain point across, you might use a mixture of characters like "@#%$" instead.

Do not forward messages without asking first.

It is considered rude to forward someone else's email or discussion board postings without permission.

Do not send commercial "advertisements" to your classmates. Do not forward "chain mail" electronically. Be aware of potential compatibility problems when sharing electronic files.

When attaching a file to an electronic message, the recipient(s) may not be successful in opening the file on the other end.

Do not "attach" a file to a message if you can paste it into the body of the note instead. (Unless

required to do otherwise by your instructor.) Since attaching files can cause compatibility problems, it

is best to avoid doing so when possible. It will also save recipient(s) an extra step or two, as material will be readable within the email system (versus having to open up another application, such as a word processor, to see what has been sent).

Do not share copyrighted materials.

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5. Academic Policies

5.1 Copyright Policy

For University Copyright policy, visit www.lynn.edu/policy. The Copyright Policy is located in the Lynn University Comprehensive Institution‐Wide Policy Manual – Volume II, section 2.7.

5.2 Academic Integrity Policy

For University Academic Integrity Policy, visit www.lynn.edu/policy. The Academic Integrity Policy is located in the Lynn University Comprehensive Institution‐Wide Policy Manual – Volume V, section 5.4.1.

5.3 Academic Honesty Policy

For University Academic Honesty Policy, visit www.lynn.edu/policy. The Academic Honesty Policy is located in the Lynn University Comprehensive Institution‐Wide Policy Manual – Volume II, section 5.4.11.

5.4 Information Technology Policies

For University Information Technology Policies, visit www.lynn.edu/policy. The Information Technology Policies are located across the following Volumes:

Lynn University Comprehensive Institution‐Wide Policy Manual – Volume II, section 2.4 Lynn University Comprehensive Institution‐Wide Policy Manual – Volume VI, section 6.3.12

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6. Using Blackboard

6.1 Participating in a Discussion Board

Many online learning courses make use of a Discussion Board as a way to exchange announcements and engage in a group discussion. These tools are simply text‐based communication systems that enable students and instructors to "post," and reply to, messages.

The Discussion Board makes use of a "threaded discussion”. This system groups together messages that relate to the same topic. For example, if the instructor posts a message that is titled "Class Introductions," each student's response (the individual self‐introductions) would be grouped with the original note. Discussion Board Terminology: Post: The basic component of the Discussion Board is a message, also called a “post”. A message is "posted" by a user, meaning the user has entered the message. Messages may also include an attached file. Threads: A thread is an original message and all of the messages that are responses to that message (think of it as all threads in that message are on the same topic) Replies are indicated by a "Re:" (for "regarding") in the Subject line. Forum: Threads are stored in Forums. A forum is just like a folder to hold all of your threads. An instructor may have a different forum each week, which contains all the threads relevant to that particular week/unit.

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6.2 Submitting Assignments

Online courses may use Blackboard’s assignment manager feature.

To submit an assignment through the assignment feature follow these steps: Step 1: After navigating to the assignment's location, click the View/Complete link:

Step 2: Depending upon how the instructor has set up the assignment, students may find the assignment instructions on this page, or in one or more assignment files linked to this page. To view linked assignment files, right‐click on their links and save them to the local computer.

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Important: do not click the Submit button until the assignment is completely finished and ready to be turned in. If Submit is clicked students will be locked out of the Upload Assignment page and will need to ask the instructor to clear the assignment attempt.

Note that the filename of any file submitted must include only letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores (no spaces or other characters) and end with a file extension (.doc, .ppt).

Step 3: To paste an assignment click inside the text box. If pasting text from a word processor, note that any formatting used (except for line breaks) will not be preserved. In addition, there is a limit of 4000 characters in this text box. If an assignment is over 4000 characters it must be attached as a file.

Also, note that Blackboard requires that something be entered in the comments box in order for a file to be submitted

To attach a file, click “Browse”

Additional files may be added by selecting “Add Another File” Click Submit to send the assignment to the instructor.

Important: Selecting “Save” will allow students to access this file at a later time, but the instructor will not be able to view the document or assignment.

Step 4: After clicking Submit, an assignment receipt page will display. Click OK. To later verify that an assignment was submitted successfully click the assignment's View/Complete link. An “Assignment Already Completed” page will open. Click OK to view the Assignment Information and the submitted document.

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6.3 Contributing to a Wiki

Students can contribute to a Bb wiki by adding text, hyperlinks, images, and media. Step 1: Enter your course.

Step 2: Locate the wiki. Look for this icon:

Step 3. Click the “View” link for the wiki.

Step 4. Click the “Edit” link in the wiki sidebar. Step 5: Add content as described below

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25 Add Text

Two options are available for entering text: direct entry and copy & paste 1. Click the “Edit” link in the wiki sidebar as described above.

Direct Entry

Copy and Paste

To copy text from Microsoft Word, click the “Paste from Word” icon your keyboard.

and press Ctrl+v on To copy text from another type of document, click the “Paste” icon

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26 Insert a Hyperlink

1 Click the “Edit” link in the wiki sidebar as described above.

2 Highlight the text that will be used as the hyperlink.

3 Click the “Add link” icon: . The following box appears: To link to a new wiki page, select the “Link to a new page” option and enter a name in the Page Name field. This creates a new page within the wiki and a link to that page.

To link is to an existing wiki page, select the “Link to an existing page” option and select the page from the list.

If the link is to an external web site, select the “Link to an external web site” option and enter the web address in the URL field.

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29 Insert Media

1. Click the Edit link in the wiki sidebar as described above. 2. Click the insert media icon:

. The box below appears 3. Select the type of media.

4. Enter the web address of the media.

5. Enter the width and height in the “Dimensions” fields (optional but 300 X 400 or larger recommended) 6. Click the Insert button.

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6.4 Online Exam Tips

Online exams can be set for single or multiple attempts, with specific date and time settings, timed and/or with password protection. An exam might display a single question at a time, or may offer the ability to stop and save, resuming it where you stopped. Other exams may be configured so questions are pulled in random order from a question pool.

Contact your instructor ahead of time if you have any questions about the exam format and review the following tips to reduce the chance of problems:

Before starting an online quiz/exam:

DO NOT click the exam link unless you are actually prepared to take the exam at that time. If the exam is set for “single attempt” and/or "force completion" and you hit the Cancel or Back buttons, close the window or try to access another area of the course, you will be locked out and unable to access the exam again. If this occurs, contact your instructor immediately by email or phone to document the problem and ask how to proceed.

Click the link only once, otherwise you may receive a message: “The assessment has already been taken”.

Maximize your browser screen before starting the exam.

If the use of additional windows or websites is allowed, open them before starting the exam. Resizing the screen or launching a second browser window when the exam is displayed may cause you to be locked out of the exam.

Disable any pop‐up blockers before starting the exam. Pop‐up blockers can prevent the exam from displaying.

If an exam must be taken by a specific date or time, do not wait until the last minute to start it. Should something go wrong, there may not be enough time to resolve the issue before the deadline.

If an exam question presentation is "All At Once" rather than "One at a Time", wait for the entire quiz to load before answering/saving Question #1. (Scroll down to the bottom of the exam to make sure all the questions appear before starting.)

Dial‐Up Users: Make sure your ISP idle time‐out settings are set to the maximum allowed time. (In IE, this setting is usually found under: Tools>Internet Options>Connections>Settings> Advanced).

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Wireless Laptop Users: Always use a hard‐wired connection plugged directly into your router instead of a wireless connection when taking exams.

While you are taking the exam:

If you do lose your connection in the middle of an exam, do not close your browser window. Try to re‐establish your connection. If the exam is still displayed, complete it and try to submit. If you are concerned about whether your results were recorded, print a copy of the confirmation page for your records and email your instructor indicating you encountered technical difficulties.

Check the status of the Force Completion setting‐‐If it says: "This Test must be completed now. It CANNOT be resumed later‐‐you CANNOT logout and return to the test later. The test must be completed and submitted without exiting from it. If Force Completion indicates "This test can be saved and resumed later", then will you will be able to save the test, logout, and return to

it‐‐however, if it is a timed exam, the timer will continue to run, even if you do not have the exam displayed.

If the exam is timed, you will see the following message when starting the exam:

This quiz has an X hour X minute time limit. The clock will start as soon as the quiz is loaded and a timer will display at the top of the exam area. When one minute remains, a warning pop‐up message will display. If the time limit is exceeded, Blackboard will accept the submission, but the time overage will be recorded in the grades area by a red exclamation point which must be reviewed by your instructor.

Remember that Saving and Submitting are two separate processes, and even if you've saved the exam you still must click Submit when you are finished or have run out of time. (It may take some time to record the results‐‐DO NOT click Submit more than once.)

DO NOT use the browser's Back and Forward buttons or the scroll wheel on your mouse to navigate; instead use the arrow keys and/or window side scroll bars to move to previous questions. (This does not apply to exams that are set to display questions one at a time and/or prohibit backtracking.)

If time permits, review your exam responses prior to submission.

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7. Glossary of Online Learning and Internet Terms

Attachment: A method to place a file, such as a Microsoft Word document, into an email. The recipient must have the same software program in order to open the file.

Bandwidth: The amount of data or information that can be sent through a connection, usually measured in bits‐per‐second (bps.)

Blog: A journal that is available on the web. The activity of updating a blog is "blogging" and someone who keeps a blog is a "blogger." Blogs are typically updated daily using software that allows people with little or no technical background to update and maintain the blog. Postings on a blog are usually arranged in chronological order with the most recent additions featured most prominently. It is common for blogs to be available as RSS feeds.

Broadband: Refers to a connection to the Internet with much greater bandwidth than with a modem. There is no specific definition of the speed of a broadband connection but any Internet connection using DSL or Cable‐TV is considered a broadband connection.

Browser: A software program used to connect to and display information from a web site. Microsoft Explorer and Firefox are examples.

Cookie: A piece of information sent by a web server to a browser that is expected to be saved and sent back whenever the browser makes additional requests from the server. Depending on the type of Cookie used, and the Browser settings, the Browser may accept or not accept the Cookie, and may save the Cookie for either a short time or a long time. Cookies might contain information such as login or registration information, online "shopping cart" information, user preferences, etc.

CD‐ROM: (Compact Disk‐Read Only Memory) Similar to an audio CD but contains computer data such as files, programs, simulations, or course materials. To use a CD‐ROM a computer must have a

CD‐ROM drive.

Chat room: A live, web‐based application in which participants communicate with each other via text. Each individual in the chat room types into a chat window and his or her writing appears immediately on each participant’s screen. In distance learning, chat rooms may be used for discussions and team or group work.

Download: Transferring data (usually a file) from one computer to the computer being used. (The opposite of upload).

DSL: (Digital Subscriber Line) A method for moving data over regular phone lines. A DSL circuit is much faster than a regular phone connection, and the wires coming into the subscriber's premises are the same copper wires used for regular phone service.

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DVD‐ROM: (Digital Video Disk‐Read Only Memory) Similar to a movie DVD but contains computer data such as, files, programs, simulations, or course materials. To use a DVD‐ROM a computer must have a DVD drive.

Email: Electronic mail is a message sent from one person to another via the Internet or other computer network. Sending and receiving email messages requires an email application such as Microsoft Outlook or a web‐based application such as Yahoo mail.

Email address: An electronic mail address for an individual or organization. Example: asmith@lynn.edu

Ethernet: A common method of networking computers in a LAN.

FAQs: (Frequently Asked Questions) Documents that allow users to access answers or information on common questions or problems on a specific topic.

Flash Drive: Also known as a Jump Drive, this small USB storage device replaces the floppy disk as a convenient and reliable means of file storage. The large capacity of these small devices allow for simple storage and transfer of documents, pictures and videos

Flame: To attack an individual or group by posting an email to a listserv or discussion group. Internet culture frowns on flaming.

Fire Wall: A combination of hardware and software which separates a Network into two or more parts for security purposes.

FTP: (File Transfer Protocol) A way to move files from one computer to another. FTP is an older method of file transfer that is not commonly utilized in distance learning courses.

GIF: (Graphic Interchange Format) A common format for image files, especially suitable for images containing large areas of the same color. GIF format files of images are often smaller than the same file stored in JPEG format. However, GIF format does not store photographic images as well as JPEG. Home page: The Internet page that appears when first opening a browser. A homepage can be changed at any time. While taking an online course, it may be convenient to use the MyLynn portal as your home page.

Host computer: A computer that contains information or programs that are accessible through another computer. Web sites are files on a host computer.

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HTTP: (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is the protocol for moving hypertext files across the Internet. Hypertext: Any text that contains links to other documents or web sites.

IM: Instant Messaging is the exchange of text messages through a computer application in real‐time. Popular IM applications include AOL, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger and Apple iChat.

IMAP: Internet Message Access Protocol is one way that an email program can retrieve email from a server. IMAP4 is the current version. Another common protocol is POP.

Internet: Millions of computers worldwide linked together by telephone lines and other forms of telecommunications networks.

Internet Discussion Groups: Also known listservs. These are groups of individuals who post, or exchange information and discuss topics via email on subjects where there are mutual interests.

IP Address: A unique number consisting of four parts separated by dots such as 165.113.245.2. Every machine on the Internet has a unique IP number. Many machines (especially servers) also have one or more Domain Names that are easier for people to remember.

ISP: (Internet Service Provider) Companies that provide a connection from a computer to the Internet using a telephone line, cable, or wireless network.

Java: A computer language used to add new capabilities to a browser. Java applets (small programs) are required for some distance learning subject matter. Similar to Active X.

JPEG: (Joint Photographic Experts Group) JPEG is the most commonly mentioned format for image files. JPEG format is preferred to the GIF format for photographic images as opposed to line art or simple logo art.

LAN: (Local Area Network). A computer network limited to the immediate area, usually the same building or floor of a building.

Link: Text or graphics on a web page that can be selected to view a different web page or document.

Listserv: An electronic mailing list that allows participants to send the same information to many people by addressing a message to a single computer. The computer forwards the message to everyone on the list.

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Login: Either a noun or a verb. Noun: The account name used to gain access to a computer system (contrast with Password). Verb: the act of connecting to a computer system by giving your credentials (usually your "username" and "password")

Modem: A communications device that your computer uses to connect to other computers and the Internet.

Network: The connection of two or more computers together so that they can share resources. If two or more networks are connected together this is known as an Internet.

NIC: (Network Interface Card).The card in a computer that allows for connection to a network, usually Ethernet.

Operating system: A program that provides basic services needed to operate a computer including file access, screen information, and mouse use. Microsoft Windows® and Apple Mac OS® are the most common operating systems for personal computers.

Password: A series of letters and/or numbers utilized along with a user name. A password provides security to insure only authorized users can read email or participate in a class. Do not write down or share a password.

PDF: (Portable Document Format) A file format designed to enable printing and viewing of documents with all formatting (typefaces, images, layout, etc.) regardless of what operating system is used. A PDF document should look the same on Windows, Macintosh, Linux, OS/2, etc. The PDF format is based on the widely used Postscript document‐description language. Both PDF and Postscript were developed by the Adobe Corporation.

Plug‐in: A program that adds new functions to a browser. Audio and video often require plug‐ins. Plug‐ins must be downloaded from the Internet and installed on a computer.

Podcast: A form of audio broadcasting using the Internet, podcasting takes its name from a combination of "iPod" and broadcasting. iPod is the popular digital audio player made by Apple, but podcasting does not actually require the use of an iPod. Podcasting involves making one or more audio files available as "enclosures" in an RSS feed. A pod‐caster creates a list of music, and/or other sound files (such as recorded poetry, or "talk radio" material) and makes that list available in the RSS 2.0 format. The list can then be obtained by other people using various podcast "retriever" software which reads the feed and makes the audio files available to digital audio devices (including, but not limited to iPods) where users may then listen to them at their convenience.

POP: (Post Office Protocol) One way that an email program can retrieve your email from a server. POP2 is an older version, and POP3 is a newer version. Another common protocol is IMAP.

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Portal: A web site that is intended to be the first place accessed when using the web. A Portal site may also offer email and other services to entice people to use that site as their main "point of entry" (hence "portal") to the Web.

Post: To send an email to a listserv or discussion group.

RAM: Random Access Memory allows a computer to keep information stored for instantaneous access as opposed to retrieving it from a hard drive which takes more time. Information in RAM is lost when a computer is turned off or loses power.

RSS: (Rich Site Summary or Real Simple Syndication) A commonly used protocol for syndication and sharing of content, originally developed to facilitate the syndication of news articles, now widely used to share the contents of blogs. RSS "feeds" are sources of RSS information about web sites, and RSS

"readers" read RSS feeds and display their content to users.

Search engine: A web site that hosts an engine or indexed database of many of the web sites around the world. Searches are performed by typing words that are descriptive of the information sought. The search engine returns web site addresses that contain keywords in rank order from the best match to the worst. Google is the most popular search engine. Other search engines are Yahoo Search, and ask.com.

Server: A computer, or software package that provides a specific kind of service to client software running on other computers. The term can refer to a particular piece of software, such as a WWW server, or to the machine on which the software is running, e.g. "Our mail server is down today, that's why email isn't getting out."

Snail mail: Regular paper mail from the U.S. Postal system. It is named for its slowness when compared to email.

Spam: Unwanted commercial email similar to junk mail received through the U.S. Postal system. Spyware: A term generally referring to software that is secretly installed on a user’s computer and that monitors use of the computer in some way without the user’s knowledge or consent. Most spyware tries to get the user to view advertising and/or particular web pages. Some spyware also sends information about the user to another machine over the Internet. Spyware is usually installed without user

knowledge as part of the installation of other software, especially software such as music sharing software obtained via download.

Surfing: Surfing the web means moving from one website or page to another website. Upload: Transferring data (usually a file) from one computer to another computer.

URL: (Universal Resource Locator) the address of a Web site listed either as http://… or www…. this address is used to view a web site.

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User name: A name by which a computer identifies a user when sending email or connecting with a remote computer using a modem. Using a user name along with a password allows secure access to a computer. Sometimes called a user ID or log on.

Video conference: An activity in which individuals meet at the same time to see and talk to each other using video cameras, microphones, and the Internet or telephone lines to connect between the sites. The distance between sites can be less than a mile or to the other side of the world.

Virus: A piece of computer programming code that makes copies of itself without human intervention. Some viruses do more than simply replicate themselves. Viruses might display messages, install other software or files, delete software or files, etc. A virus requires the presence of some other program to replicate itself. Typically viruses spread by attaching themselves to programs and, in some cases, files. For example, the file formats for Microsoft word processor and spreadsheet programs allow the inclusion of programs called "macros" which can be a breeding ground for viruses.

VOIP: (Voice Over Internet Protocol) A specification and various technologies used to allow telephone calls over IP networks, especially the Internet. Just as modems allow computers to connect to the Internet over regular telephone lines, VOIP technology allows humans to talk over Internet connections.

WAN: (Wide Area Network) Any Internet or network that covers an area larger than a single building or campus.

Web: Files on millions of computers on the Internet that allow access to multimedia‐text, pictures, audio, and video. (Also referred to as the World Wide Web or www).

Web browser: A software program, which runs on a computer to connect it with and display information from a web site. Microsoft Explorer and Firefox are examples.

Website: A set of files on the Internet with information that can be viewed using a Web browser. Wi‐Fi: (Wireless Fidelity) A popular term for a form of wireless data communication.

Wiki: A website that allows visitors to edit content. This is a collaborative technology for sharing information on the Internet or within an organization or individual class. Wikipedia is currently the most popular wiki on the Internet.

Some portions of his Glossary are licensed under the Creative Commons "Attribution‐ShareAlike" license. The original author and copyright holder is Matisse Enzer, and the current version of the Glossary is available at http://www.matisse.net/files/glossary.html.

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