Wimba Live Classroom
Student Quick-Start Guide
Synchronous Meetings
Horizon Wimba is synchronous online tool
available within BLS/WebCT Vista. Wimba
allows the instructor and students to
meet in a virtual classroom where you can share
applications and talk to each
other in real time. An Open Wimba Session can be
accessed from the home page
for online class sessions and small group meetings.
We will be meeting synchronously throughout
the semester. Please try to arrange your
schedule so you can participate in
these meetings. If you are unable to participate you
may be able to access an
archived recording of the session.
Hardware Requirements
The only additional hardware necessary
for participation in the Wimba sessions is a computer headset, a combination
of headphones and a microphone. These are readily available at stores such at
Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, Target, Walmart, and all electronics and computer
stores. Prices range from $10 to $20 for low-cost models. Many college bookstores
also sell them. Athough UMass Boston does not endorse or recommend any specific
product vendors, we note that, as of 13Sept 2007, one model of headset we've
found successful is available for online ordering through Tiger.Com at the following
URL:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/searchtools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1222391&Sku=L23-6550&SRCCODE=STPRICE&CMP=OTC-SORTPRICE
L23-6550
Logitech Labtec Stereo 342 Headset with Microphone
Clear,
stereo sound and a value price make the entry-level Stereo 342 Headset a great
choice for voice-over-IP and other voice applications.
$12.99 (In Stock)
Importantly, some models of Apple Macintosh computer, including the MacG4
desktop and MacG4 laptop series cannot use standard computer
headsets with microphones. For these models of Mac, students should obtain USB
headsets, which, unfortunately, tend to sell at higher costs than those using
the mini-stereo (1/8th inch) jacks of more common computer headsets.
NOTE: You should not use computer
speakers during a Wimba session since this will cause feedback and echoing for
others in the synchronous conferencing session when you yourself are speaking or
your mic is otherwise activated
Computer Configuration for Horizon Wimba
Prior to participation in your first Wimba
Session be sure to run the Setup Wizard. Do not
wait until the session itself
to run this. The setup Wizard performs a series of test to
determine if your
computer is properly configured for use with Wimba. If the tests
indicate a
problem with your configuration, you will be instructed how to remedy
this
situation.
Technical Support
Help for
BLS/WebCT Vista and Horizon Wimba is available 24/7 via e-mail or phone.
Send
e-mail to: bostonsupport@umassonline.net or
call 1-800-569-6505. or use live text chat.
Remember, it is your
responsibility to resolve any technical issues prior to our
first
meeting.