Distance Education: Technology
Programs available by distance education are delivered by a variety of technologies depending on the needs of the program and the academic department. Both Synchronous (real time) and Asynchronous (any time) delivery formats are used. Distances education classes have specific start and end dates that correspond with the UT semester-based academic calendar. Access to required software is provided by the University.
The majority of online programming at UTK is delivered by Live Online, Media Site and Online@UT (Blackboard) management system and/or others as determined by the needs of the curriculum and academic department.
What is “Live Online”?
Live online classes are delivered via web conferencing using a software application called Centra. This software allows the student to have a live interactive classroom (two-way audio) experience via the web. Classes may require online attendance at specific meetings during each week of the semester. Recordings may be available throughout the semester.
Live Online is real-time; you see and hear everything as it happens. This Internet based interactive media features:
- Learn from home, office, anywhere with an internet connection
- Technical support available via toll-free telephone before and during class
- Recorded lectures for reference as allowed by instructor
- Click here for a list of computer requirements
- FAQ's about Live Online Technology
- Contact 1-877-974-3117 or liveonline@utk.edu for support services.
What is Mediasite?
Mediasite is one-way streaming video and audio. Online students have the option of watching the classes streamed live or on demand. The in-class and distance education programs mirror each other - the information is exactly the same. With Media Site the real-time capture and recording means faculty teach only once and reach multiple audiences. This is a web-based product, no download of special software is necessary. Contact, (865) 974-5272 or Fax: (865) 974-4878 for technical support.
Click here for more information and sample video.
What is Online@UT?
The Online@UT website (Blackboard) provides access to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's online course management system, as well as related support documentation. Online@UT is often combined with Live Online or Media Site for the required organizational work of each class. Blackboard is the company that makes the course management software currently in use by Online@UT, the course management systems (CMS). Contact for support services.