• using e-mail (sending, opening, replying, and saving attachments)
• web browsing (navigating, searching, and downloading)
• word processing (most instructor require MS Word or compatible

For more information about Blackboard (WebCT), see the Blackboard (WebCT) .


Hardware & Software Requirements
You must have regular and reliable access to a computer with access to the Web. Suggestions and requirements for each are listed below:

Computer

• The computer must be robust enough to run one of the recent web browsers and download files in a reasonable amount of time. For personal computers, we require at least a Pentium-class personal computer (or its equivalent Apple or Unix machine) with at least 16 MB of RAM.

Word Processor (& other application software)

• Most courses require some type of word processor for creating assignments, such as a research paper. Your instructor may require a specific word processing program, such as Microsoft Word, or other software that relates to the course, such as a spreadsheet, etc. Check with the course instructor or department head for any specific software requirements.

Web Access

• You will need to be able to reach the World Wide Web, either through a network at your place of business or through a modem connection from home, using an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The modem should be at least 28.8 kbps.  
  

Required Browsers and Settings
It is very important that you use a compatible browser and configure your browser settings to work effectively with Blackboard (WebCT). Select the browser you will be using to verify compatibility and to configure your browser's settings:

Internet Explorer | Netscape | AOL

  
Logging in to Blackboard (WebCT)

If you have registered for one or more online courses, please follow the instructions below on how to log on to your course (even if you've taken online courses in the past, because all Blackboard (WebCT) accounts have changed):

1.Online courses are delivered via a system called Blackboard (WebCT). Access Blackboard (WebCT) at http://tcwct6.tctc.edu - or - from Tri-County's home page (www.tctc.edu) click the Distance Learning &
Blackboard (WebCT) Login link in the green bar at the top of the page and then click the "Log in to Blackboard (WebCT)" button. It's
a good idea to add this page to your Favorites in your web browser.

Note: The Blackboard (WebCT) server is unavailable Monday - Friday from 2 a.m. until approximately 4 a.m. for daily backups.
 
2. Click on "Log in to myBlackboard (WebCT)"



3. Check your browser. For Blackboard (WebCT) to properly function, specific browser and Java versionsas well as permission to allow popup windows are required. The Check Browser link located on the login page will run a test to make certain your machine is equipped with everything required to sucessfully run Blackboard (WebCT). Instructions will be provided on how to download and install any missing components.

4. Enter your Blackboard (WebCT) ID (user name) and password, then click the "OK" button.

• Enter your USER NAME. Your user name in Blackboard (WebCT) is the same as your eTC user name.
  
  If you don’t know your log information, your eTC username can be found in the ‘eTC Username & Email Directory for Students’ (the directory link is also found on the eTC homepage)
  
  Example:
  Blackboard (WebCT) ID: bsimpson
  Password: 040182
• Enter your PASSWORD.
  Your password is your birthdate in mmddyy format (e.g., February 20, 1985 = 022085).
  

5. Once logged in, click on the CHECK BROWSER link in the blue bar at the top of the screen and follow the instructions to make sure your web browser is configured properly for Blackboard (WebCT). Note that you must DISABLE POP-UP blockers to use Blackboard (WebCT).


6. Click on the name of your course(s) on the My Blackboard (WebCT) page to enter the course homepage and read all of your instructor's instructions.



7. Some courses require a Blackboard (WebCT) Access Code that comes bundled with your textbook. Enter the code after accepting the user license agreement. You will only have to enter this code the first time you log on to the course.

Click on "Submit."



Getting Help

1. Your Instructor
Your instructor will be the primary person you communicate with during this online course. It's important to let your instructor know if you're having trouble, or if you have any questions about your course. Contact your instructor when:


* You have questions about course content.
* You have questions about assignments, quizzes, tests, or your grade.


2. Helpdesk
The Blackboard (WebCT) Helpdesk can help you when you're having trouble logging into the course, or when you experience problems with the Blackboard (WebCT) software. The Helpdesk is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To contact the Blackboard (WebCT) Helpdesk
On the Web (preferred method):
Complete an online support ticket.


Telephone
864-646-1457
1-866-269-5677 ext.1457 (toll free)

Please note: When requesting assistance from your instructor or the Helpdesk it may take up to 24 hours before you receive a reply on Monday thorugh Friday (weekends can take longer). Not all problems can be solved the same day; however, faculty and staff will do their best to help you find a resolution in a timely manner.