The Blackboard™ jungle: A case study of instructor and student perceptions of the learning technology tool Blackboard™

Abstract

This case study investigates instructor and student perceptions of the learning technology tool Blackboard Academic Suite™ (hereafter known as Blackboard). A questionnaire was used to gather responses from instructors (n =21) and students (n=260) at Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas, regarding their experiences in using Blackboard. The questionnaire contained both quantitative and qualitative elements, allowing for a triangulated approach to the study. The literature suggests that successful integration of new technologies is dependent upon instructor enthusiasm and expertise. The study found a generally positive experience with Blackboard, but also found some drawbacks and hurdles that will need to be overcome with regard to its use. Instructors' reluctance to adopt new methods and technologies, instructor training on innovative uses of Blackboard, and the level of user-friendliness of the program stood out as areas needing improvement. Further research in this area could be a great aid to those who are developing and implementing both software and hardware for the instructional setting.