Online Learning Platform

The computer software platform utilized by North Park University for the delivery of online courses is called Blackboard, distributed by Blackboard, Inc. This product is a multipurpose system which provides a campus-wide online community environment, individual course websites, as well as access to campus support systems. For specific computer requirements for utilizing this system, please check the Computer Services website by clicking here.

For course delivery, each course has its own password-protected website. Only students enrolled in the course have access to the site. This site is where the professor will post the class syllabus and other content materials such as written lectures, required readings, project requirements, and exams. Class discussions take place in an ‘asynchronous’ discussion board. All course members have access to the discussion board and can post their own original responses to weekly discussion questions posed by the instructor and reply to their classmates. Usually class discussions follow the traditional week to week format of a regular face to face class, but in the discussion board, students can log in anytime that is convenient for them within the particular parameters set by the instructor. The course website also provides opportunities for email communication, small group projects, and general informal conversation for building an online learning community.

The multipurpose aspect of Blackboard also provides students access to online services available throughout the university – such as online registration, bill payment, and library resources. The seminary has also defined an organization called the Seminary Resource Center (SRC) where students can find seminary policies and forms that they need in order to do such things as petition for a change in degree program or file an application for graduation. The SRC also contains many useful academic resources – such as guides for writing research papers – that will help students be successful in their studies.

All new seminary students must participate in an online orientation which gives them an overview of how Blackboard functions and introduces them to the Seminary Resource Center.