myCourses, MSU’s learning management system, will transition from Blackboard Vista to Blackboard Learn 9.1 beginning Maymester. It is important to note that this transition is not an upgrade of the existing Vista system but rather a migration to an entirely new system with enhanced features and integrations. As part of the migration, the myBanner process of marking sections is changing. Once sections are marked to be taught in myCourses, instructors will have an additional option to combine these marked sections as necessary. Crosslisted sections will automatically be combined once they are marked for myCourses.

A pilot of the myCourses Blackboard Learn system is currently underway this spring for the purpose of gathering feedback from faculty and students. The pilot consists of thirty instructors, representing all of the academic colleges, and seventy course sections. There are 2,200 students enrolled in pilot sections. Thus far, we’ve received positive feedback from pilot instructors and students regarding the functionality and usability of Blackboard Learn.  All of the information we’ve gathered will enable a smoother transition for the campus roll-out in May.

Training is being provided by the Center for Teaching and Learning. All faculty members are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this training in order to be ready when the transition occurs. Go to the Center for Teaching and Learning web site at www.ctl.msstate.edu to register for Blackboard Learn training.

In addition to the Blackboard Learn training, ITS will facilitate several sessions in the McArthur lab to assist faculty in marking and combining their course sections for the upcoming summer and fall semesters. A facilitator will be available at each session to answer any section marking/combining questions. Information regarding these sessions will be forthcoming.

If you have any questions regarding the transition to Blackboard Learn in May, training questions, or section marking/combining questions, please contact the ITS Help Desk at 662. 323.0631 or 888.398.6394.