Course Communication Space

The Course Communication Space is accessible either by clicking the Course Communication Space link on the Course Content Interface or by directly entering the URL provided by the instructor. Logging in to the Course Communication Space provides you with:

• Course Email
• Course Bulletin Boards and Forums
• Chat
• Course Calendar
• Module Quizzes
• Course Gradebook

All Discussion Activities presented in the Course Content Interface are completed in the Course Communication Space under the appropriate thread starter. This tight integration allows students and instructors to quickly find and reference specific discussions.

Course-Management Systems

Course-Management Systems (CMSs) provide several functions that are crucial to an instructor’s ability to create and assign rich online learning experiences, including synchronous and asynchronous communications (such as chat and threaded discussion), automated polling, quizzing and grade management, student portfolio presentations, activity tracking, as well as password-protected delivery of "learning objects," which may consist of digital text, graphics, video, audio, interactive models, and other content.

The Role of ANGEL in Online IST

The IST Solutions Institute has developed templates for use with the PSU CMS, ANGEL. This means all Discussion Activities, Quizzes, and additional materials are present and available to instructors dynamically. This is a tremendous advantage to partner instructors as it empowers them to focus on teaching instead of technology.

In addition, Online IST faculty development events and support materials reference the use of ANGEL and its features.

Online IST is compatible with any of the available communication environments on the market. As a matter of fact, Online IST works just fine in a supplemental mode that does not require any type of computer mediated communication tool.