What do I need to use YLC Message Boards?

Login information

Your instructor will set up a message board for your class and will give you a username and password. Go to url: http://babel.uoregon.edu/MessageBoards

Equipment (hardware) needed?

· A computer with an internet connection—a broadband connection (ethernet, dsl/cable, etc.) is required for video recording and playback, but audio will work well even over a 56k modem.

· A headset with a microphone—USB headsets work the best, but if you have a laptop, its built-in microphone may be adequate.

Software needed

· A modern web browser—we recommend Firefox 1.07 or greater, but others (IE, Safari, etc) should work fine.

· Media players—QuickTime, and Flash (most computers on campus have these installed). You can download them from http://www.apple.com/quicktime (Quicktime) and http://www.macromedia.com (Flash Player)

How do I set up my computer to use it?

Control Panel (Windows XP) or Systems Preferences (Mac OSX) must be properly configured for sound and voice. That is, you need to tell your computer which device you’re using to listen and speak into. (All the computers at the Yamada Language Center are set up for this kind of recording and playback).

Windows XP Control Panel for Sound and Speech

Mac OSX System Preference for Sound (output) and Speech (input)

Troubleshooting?

Many hardware problems can be solved by plugging and unplugging the headset (it re-establishes the USB connection). Software problems can be solved by “refreshing” the web page. YLC is not set up to handle telephone tech support. Please come in if you’re having problems taking a quiz.