How does chat work?
Unlike a discussion board, chat requires participants to be logged into the Blackboard course site at the same time (synchronously). Your instructor probably labeled a button “Communication.” To access the chat functions: • Locate and click on “Collaboration” • Click on “Join” next to “Lightweight Chat” • Follow the instructions for downloading a Java plug in if such an option is presented to you. (You only need to do this once on your computer). Do not leave that screen until the installation is complete. This will take a few seconds/minutes, depending on your Internet connection speed. • Enter the chat room area. You’ll probably need to wait a few seconds for the chat room to load (in virtual time it might seem long!). Be patient it will happen. • Type your message in the “compose” line at the bottom of the screen and press send or hit enter. Your message, along with messages from other present course mates, will appear in the larger dialogue box.
Relationship Help Online uses real-time chat. It works like msn. A chat console opens at the time of your pre-booked session. You and your counsellor use text to “talk” to each other. You do NOT have to download any software. If you are familiar with chatting online using msn or other applications, you will probably feel comfortable having counselling online. However, if you are not familiar with chat applications or using text-based communication (SMS, etc) then it may take a bit of getting used to. Let your counsellor know if you feel uncomfortable.
Mini Match features two types of chat: Speed Chat and Full Chat. Speed Chat uses a list of pre-written phrases to make chatting quicker and easier, allowing players to communicate without needing to type. Full Chat allows players to type their messages, but they can use only words from our extensive but kid-friendly dictionary. In either case, players are restricted to words we have approved, with no obscene or offensive terms included in the dictionary.
