Isaac Warren
Print Editor
SPRINGFIELD — Technology is always around us, whether we realize it or not. From drones to online banking, the Internet and the technology resulting from it has improved the lives of literally millions of people. Among those people are college students.
Online access to tools has helped students and professors to be more efficient with their work and class structure, as well as make it easier to be successful in college.
Joseph Daum, a student at LLCC, said that technology has made college easier, especially Blackboard’s ability to submit papers for classes.
If the technology of today did not exist, Daum said he could probably manage with a typewriter, but it would be difficult.
Daum said the computers in the library are his favorite technological tool to use for “printing items for class.”
Jonathan Davis, who works in the Student Life Office, said that he could probably do his job if he did not have a computer, but the technology really helps the office be more efficient.
Email has made communication easier with other staff members, as well as clubs and organizations, Davis said.
Blackboard is available for every LLCC student, and is a very important tool to use for classes.
Gary Bach, who is the instructional technology specialist at Lincoln Land, said that many classes use Blackboard for announcements, turning in work and posting grades.
Bach works at the Blackboard Support desk on the lower level of the library, where students can get face to face help with Blackboard. Students are also able to schedule appointments. There is also an online site at www.llcc.edu/bbsupport, where students can get around the clock support whenever and wherever they need it.
If a student wants to see if they would be a good online student, Bach said, they can take a test at www.llcc.edu/online.
Blackboard for online classes allows for, “flexibility and accessibility,” while also being able to maintain a personal life, Bach said. Very rarely do online students actually drive to the LLCC campus, since the resources are all on Blackboard at their disposal.
There is no doubt that technology is changing, as are the lives of people around the globe. Blackboard especially helps students efficiently turn in and receive work. There are plenty of resources at Lincoln Land for all students who need to work on projects or receive help from professors or students.
Isaac Warren can be reached at [email protected].
