Courses

=Courses= Each course within Vista will have similar tools and structure, but may not look exactly like this demonstration. This tutorial is intended to give you an overview of the available tools you may see used within your course. Please make sure to direct questions about a specific course to your instructor for clarification.

Course Content Assessments Assignments Calendar Discussions Learning Modules Mail My Grades My Files

Course Content
When you enter your course, you will arrive on the **Course Content** page. Instructors use different teaching and presentation styles for course content, so it may look different from this example. Most instructors will include a starting point for the course.

Assessments

 * Assessments** include quizzes and tests in multiple formats. They are created by the instructor or text book publisher and feature parameters around how you are required to take the assessment. Some are open ended, and some use windows of time when the test is available. For some, you must complete the test once you have started it. Please make sure you read the instructions on each assessment before you begin.


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Assignments

 * Assignments** are a way for you and your instructor to keep track of your assigned work in the course. For each assignment, please make sure to read the instructions entirely before you begin. Some may feature due dates that are flexible, while others close if you do not complete the assignment in time. In some cases you may be required to attach a file to the message, and in others you may type directly in the assignment window. I recommend you compose all your course content within another word processing application, so you do not lose your work if there are connection problems.

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Calendar
The **Calendar** includes scheduled events and assignments. You can add items to the calendar, and make them private or public.



Discussions
Creating a discussion posting is as easy as creating an email message. Make sure you include a relevant Subject line. For lengthy discussion posts, compose your message in another word processing tool and paste it in the Message window.
 * Discussions** are sometimes the primary focus of an online course. They are a way for you to learn with fellow students, share prior knowledge and demonstrate new learning. Some instructors create assigned discussions. Sometimes there is a discussion area where students are free to discuss topics not related to course material.


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Learning Modules
Your course may include **Learning Modules**. These are small units of instruction, typically arranged by topic according to the order stated on the course syllabus. When you select a Learning Module, there may be links to content, outside resources, discussions, assignments and assessments.


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Mail
Course email works similar to standard mail programs, but runs within the Vista course. You can check and send mail within the courses, or on your My Blackboard page.
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My Grades
Select the **My Grades** link to view your progress in the course. Use the course syllabus to learn about grading for your course. If you have questions, check with your instructor.

My Files
You can manage your course files using the **My Files** link. Here, you are able to get files from your computer, create new files, copy, move and zip files. You can also create folders to help you organize your files.

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