SOCRATES USERS!

Each semester you must submit a course request using the appropriate course request form for each course you are teaching (don't forget to request and cross list the E01 sections!).

ALWAYS CHECK YOUR WSU EMAIL FOR IMPORTANT PLATO MESSAGES!
IMPORTANT: If you are requesting course shells after the semester start, students will not be automatically enrolled. Please contact the CIT to ensure that your students are enrolled in your course. See below for tutorials, and other important information regarding course requests.

Please fill out the Socrates request form (doc or pdf formats available):

Click here to download the PDF version to print out, fill in and bring to CIT

Click here to download the Word Document that you can edit, and email back to Lisa

at lclark@westfield.ma.edu or drop it off at the CIT, Wilson 114

Be aware that if you would like to migrate your PLATO content to SOCRATES you will need to allow up to two weeks migration time.

 

SOCRATES (BBL9) SUGGESTION BOX!  

For those who are already using Socrates, click the link below for the BBL9 suggestion box. Please submit any wishes, issues, recommendations, or ideas directly to Blackboard in order to help make Socrates (BBL9) better! Thank you!

 
http://www.blackboard.com/contact-us/feedback/suggest-product-enhancements/for-learn.aspx

Welcome to Plato Upgrade Central! 

The Center for Instructional Technology is pleased to announce that Westfield State University is officially in the process of upgrading to Socrates (Blackboard Learn 9) from Plato (Blackboard Vista) and will be picking up speed in the Spring 2013 semester.

Why did we choose BBL9?

Westfield State University, as a member of the UMassOnline Consortium, took part in a comprehensive learning platform review and selected BBL9 as the best fit for the UMOL Consortium. Please read the press release for details.

Press Release, May 31, 2012 - Closely Watched Evaluation Finds Blackboard the Best Fit for UMOL Community

What is Socrates (BBL9)?  

Socrates is the name we are using for the BBL9 learning platform during the transition period. Once we are fully migrated to Socrates (BBL9) we will return to our Plato name. 

Socrates (BBL9) offers  instructors and students a new look and feel in this streamlined version of Plato with more options, ease of use, and an updated interface and design.

So what can you expect in Socrates (BBL9)?

• The interface is user friendly, more intuitive and works with more browsers.
• Drag and drop content makes it easier to reorder content.
• Easy navigation for students, and clean layout so they can concentrate on course content instead of navigation.
• Robust grade center allows for calculated columns and enhanced grading features (Lynn's favorite!).
• Easily add media from outside sites such as YouTube, Vimeo, and others.
• BB Collaborate (formerly Elluminate) has been integrated right into your course shell for a real time classroom experience. 

While there are many new features in Socrates you can continue to use it just like Plato. Content from Plato can be migrated into Socrates for your review by request so you can begin to get familiar with the new look and feel.

How can I migrate my Plato courses into Socrates (BBL9)? 

Over the next several months we will be working on upgrading the online courses to Socrates, and holding individual & group training for those who would like to get familiar with the new navigation. Please contact Lisa Clark at lclark@westfield.ma.edu to find out how to get started. 

Check back frequently for the latest updates, news, resources, and timelines. Please do not hesitate to contact the CIT staff with your questions.

Thank you!

Lynn, Lisa, Joe & Valerie
Center for Instructional Technology
413-572-8130