Technology and Blackboard

In the current crisis, we have all become more dependent on technology, but not everyone is as comfortable with computers as others. Here are some different technology application, support and development resources available to you through NUI Galway.

Some Handy Tools:  

• Outlook: Not just for emails, but for planning your study diary/timetable and managing To-Do lists  
• OneDrive: Never worry about not backing up that essay or report again” Keep all your files stored, accessible, and organized on your free 1TB of online storage as part of your Office365 account  
• OneNote: Brilliant for taking and collating lecture notes, grapping info on phone and storing in your online notebooks. You can take pics of drawings, grab snapshots of relevant websites, and lots more  

Focus and Study  

A good app and Chrome Extension to help with study and focus is Forrest App, it’s a brilliant way of helping you concentrate for short bursts of study time.  

Digital Support and Development 

• Linkedin Support: Students have access to Linkedin Learning through NUI Galway - you can earn Certificates of Completion that you can add to your CV or LinkedIn profile. More information about how to access the materials and set up your account is available here. 
• ISS: Information Solutions & Services is the name given to our IT support service. Click here to visit their website, which includes details of Office365, using your campus account, etc 
• All aboard: All Aboard is a collection of online lessons covering lots of the basics of digital media and tools. Learn more here.

Blackboard is our main 'Virtual Learning Environment' or 'Learning Management System'.  As soon as you are officially enrolled on a module you should be able to access its Blackboard pages. Your lecturers have control over what content they choose to put onto Blackboard and how it is presented to you.  

If you have any queries about where to find information within a Blackboard module, please contact the lecturer. Similarly, the lecturer manages the assessments, tests, and online classes for their own modules and so should be able to answer any related queries that aren't covered in this page or the following Blackboard help pages.

Help and instructional videos on using Blackboard are available at the following link: Blackboard Learn - Help for Students.

Other useful videos for using Blackboard:

• How to use Calendar in Blackboard: click here. 
• How to use Discussions in Blackboard: click here. 
• How to take a Blackboard Test (MCQ and similar): click here. 
• How to use Blackboard Collaborate Ultra: click here.