e-Learning
Introduction to e-Learning at UTS
Since 1997 UTS has had a co-ordinated approach to supporting e-Learning. One LMS (Learning Management System) is supported by a cross-functional team of IML and ITD across the university. At present this system is Blackboard v6.3 known as UTSOnline.
How do I get a UTSOnline account?
All UTS staff have a UTSOnline account. To access UTSOnline you will first need to activate your UTS email account at: http://email.itd.uts.edu.au/webapps/activation/
Once you have an activated email account, you will be able to log in to UTSOnline (which is located at http://online.uts.edu.au) as follows:
Username: 6 digit staff id [eg 123456]
Password: UTS email password
You can request a course area for your subject in UTSOnline by accessing the Information for Academic Staff link on the UTSOnline homepage. Details about how to get an online area set up are available at this link and you can fill in an online request form.
How do I get started?
Many teachers start by exploring the different features of UTSOnline and by thinking about how this online environment could be used to support students to learn in their subjects.
There are several ways in which people can embark on this initial exploration:
- Attending the ITD training sessions on UTSOnline to gain familiarity with the technical aspects
- Attending the IML e-learning workshops to explore the teaching and learning side of using UTSOnline
- Jumping straight in by getting an account and course area allocated, and then exploring the many features
- Asking colleagues to share their experiences of online teaching and learning with UTSOnline, by discussing them with you, or by observing their UTSOnline activities
- Conversing with IML to generate ways of using UTSOnline in different subjects for different learning purposes (preferably in groups). Contact Simon Housego or Tanja Golja
IML Learning and Teaching in UTSOnline Workshops
IML offers e-learning workshops throughout the year. Information and dates are publicised in Staff Notices, on the UTSOnline email list and as a flyer circulated to all staff. These workshops focus on the teaching and learning aspects of using UTSOnline.
ITD Skills Training Workshops
ITD offer a half-day ‘Introduction to UTSOnline’ skills workshop. The workshop takes place in the ITD training room on level 27 of the Tower at Broadway. This is a good place to learn about the technical aspects of using UTSOnline. Some prior experience in using the web is recommended.
The workshop is open to all staff of the university and is free of charge to all staff. Details of upcoming training sessions are published regularly by ITD via a Staff Notices email, sent to all staff at the university.
For information about upcoming workshops phone Behira Yerushalmy, ITD Computer Training, on (02) 9514-1110 or visit the ITD Training website.
Ask your colleagues
Many people at UTS have been using Blackboard, and before that, TopClass, for several years. Colleagues experienced in the use of online teaching and learning can be valuable sources of ideas as you start out in your use of UTSOnline. They will also often be able to answer simple technical questions, and tell you who could answer the questions if they can't. Seek their advice on how you propose to use UTSOnline, and ask them if they can talk to you about their use.
Who do I contact for advice and help?
If you would like to talk about and develop ways of using UTSOnline for learning and teaching, contact Simon Housego or Tanja Golja
If you cannot gain access to UTSOnline or are experiencing technical difficulties, contact the Support Centre by phone (02) 9514-2222 or log a request for assistance at https://servicedesk.uts.edu.au/