Distance learning started at Izmir University of Economics
Izmir University of Economics (IUE) started to offer “distance education” to its students in line with the decisions taken by the Council of Higher Education (YOK) to prevent the coronavirus outbreak. Approximately 10 thousand students received online education concurrently without having any disruptions thanks to the technical infrastructure of the University. After a weeklong break from classes, IUE students, who started online classes today, will be able to watch classes again whenever they want and communicate with their instructors.
IUE Rector Prof. Murat Aşkar stated that the University adopted the technology supported education model, the “Smart Campus”, within the framework of the University’s “Excellence in Education” strategic goal. Prof. Aşkar pointed that the University offered “Learning Management” (Blackboard Learn), “Live Distance Education” (Blackboard Collaborate) and “Course Video Recording” (Panopto Lecture Capture) systems to the access of its students and lecturers for that purpose.
“STUDENTS ARE VERY PLEASED WITH IT”
Prof. Aşkar said, “The University has a technical infrastructure owned by a limited number of universities nationwide. We completed all preparations to offer online classes for students effectively. Students will be able to attend classes online wherever they have internet access without losing any time and continue their education with the guidance of their instructors without any disruptions. We had a very smooth first day without any setbacks. It has been a very interactive and entertaining learning experience. We had positive feedbacks from students. I have no doubt that it will continue like this in the coming days as well.”
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THE SYSTEM?
Blackboard Learning Management System allows faculty members to communicate with their students online. They can share course materials such as presentations, textbooks with students, and design exams and homework. Blackboard Learning Management System allows students to have access to course materials for the classes they are enrolled in at any time of the day via any medium with an internet connection. They can also communicate with their lecturers and classmates in interactive platforms such as forums, and discussion boards. Lecturers, too, can log in to the system where they want and teach these courses.
In addition to Blackboard Learn, Blackboard Collaborate is available for distance education programs at IUE. Blackboard Collaborate is the virtual classroom (or web conferencing) tool which enables voice, video and text interaction between students and lecturers. In the event of a possible internet connection problem during a live class, these classes are being recorded offline, and when there is strong internet connection, they are being uploaded in the system so students can access them.”
