Documentation:Wimba Classroom/Elearning
What is it?
Wimba Classroom is online classroom software that combines state-of-the-art interactive technologies such as voice, application sharing, polling and whiteboard drawing. It supports communication between participants and with the facilitator via enabling of selected features such as talk, chat and presenter mode.
It can be useful for online workshops, meetings, briefing sessions, presentations, interviews, information sessions and collaborative work groups. Faculty can integrate it into their WebCT Vista classroom environments or it can be used as a stand-alone online space.
Uses and Benefits
Why would I choose Wimba Classroom?
- Integration with WebCT Vista (but can be used outside of Vista)
- Screen/desktop sharing
- Access anytime/anywhere
- Instructor defined settings and access to tools
- Breakout rooms for private discussions
- Archived audio can be exported as .mp4 and uploaded to YouTube or Kaltura for mobile access
Academic Uses
- Workshops
- Online office hours
- Online lectures/presentations
- Project meetings
- Conduct interviews
- Integrate guest presentations
- Encourage group collaboration
Examples
- Presentation Skills Workshop This is a session archive: Just enter your name when prompted.
- Introduction to Wikis for Faculty in Dentistry This is a session archive: Just enter your name when prompted.
- Online Workshop Archives These archives are hosted on Kaltura and are mobile friendly.
Get Started
Download the file for use in your Wimba Classroom.
1. Access Wimba Classroom via WebCT Vista:
- Login to WebCT Vista
- Add a Wimba Classroom Powerlink to your WebCT Vista course
- Begin setting up your Wimba Classroom
OR
Access Wimba Classroom directly:
- Request a Wimba Classroom as well as a login and password from Emily Renoe Emily Renoe or Joe Zerdin
- Login and begin setting up your Wimba Classroom
2. Prepare: Run the setup wizard which will ensure your computer is set to run Wimba by checking for: Pop-up blockers, Supported browsers, Correct java version.
- Technical Support
- 866-350-4978 (Canada/USA)
3. Get the right equipment: For best experience use a headset with a microphone, use a network or cable connection if possible.
4. Check out this overview
Resources
From Wimba
From UBC
Using Wimba in Your WebCT Vista course:
Product Documentation
- Participant: http://webhelp.wimba.com/WC/v6_1/Participant_Guide/ [View/Print PDF]
- Presenter: http://webhelp.wimba.com/WC/v6_1/Presenter_Guide/ [View/Print PDF]
- Room Admin: http://webhelp.wimba.com/WC/v6_1/RoomAdmin_Guide/ [View/Print PDF]
- Supported Web Browsers: http://www.wimba.com/assets/resources/Wimba_Supported_Browsers.pdf
- [More from Wimba.com...]
Online Training
- Signup here: http://www.wimba.com/company/events/wow/
Technical Support
- Available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week
- 1.866.350.4978
- technicalsupport@wimba.com
- http://www.wimba.com/technicalsupport/
Tips
- Preparation: Run the setup wizard which will ensure your computer is set to run Wimba by checking for: Pop-up blockers, Supported browsers, Correct java version.
- Technical Support
- 866-350-4978 (Canada/USA)
- Equipment: For best experience use a headset with a microphone, use a network or cable connection if possible. In our experience , Wimba works best on Safari for Mac and Firefox for PC.
- Communicate: Before the session:
- Using LC inside WebCT Vista: let them know where to find the LC in your vista course
- Using LC outside WebCT Vista: Send an email with login instructions and classroom url
- Remind participants to run the wizard at least an hour before session start.
- Sound Check: "Can you hear me?"
- If yes, please select the check button
- If no, please select the "x" button for assistance
- Manage Interactions: Use the tools in the Participant Frame to manage interactions
- Individually: yes/no, hand raise, emoticons Globally: Use Actions to clear yes/no, hand raise, emoticons.
- During the session: Welcome participants using voice or video.
- Use the Lock Talk feature for easier communication.
- Establish some basic ground rules (how to ask questions, etc)
- Keep it simple
- Hot Tip: Practice with colleagues!
- Before you start using Live Classroom, familiarize yourself with all Wimba features.
- Be prepared to be confused at first – there’s A LOT to manage!