Ask Us: Learning Technology (NILE)

1. Identify all your module codes

Each module has a unique 'trinity code' generated by the Curriculum team. A single module could have many variations, spanning different academic years, different sessions or locations, and multiple franchise models or delivery modes.

Here is an example of a module code: BUS1001-STD-1920.

The module title is 'BUS1001', 'STD' shows it is delivered on campus here at the University, and the 1920 shows which academic year it refers to.

If you are unable to find your module codes, please contact curriculum@northampton.ac.uk

2. Self-enrol on module sites

Add yourself to your modules via the Manage your NILE sites box which is located under the NILE Sites & Organisations tab.

• At the bottom of the box, click the button titled Add Module to Workload.
• Click the Browse button and search for the module via CourseID, Course Name or Descripton.
• Click the circular radio button next to the course, scroll to the bottom of the window and click Submit.
• Click Submit again in the previous window.
• Reorder your modules by clicking the cog icon at the top right of your My sites panel on NILE. 

3. Copy content from an old NILE site into a new NILE site 

If you are using material from existing NILE modules then you will want to copy these across to your new site. You can find out how to do this if you view Copy Content Guide.
The introduction of Blackboard Ally means that accessibility information for content in NILE is now provided to staff, along with ideas about how that content can be made more accessible. You can find our more about Ally here.

4. Create an introductory video

If you have not already done so (or copied over from a previous year) we would like to encourage you to create your own introduction. Guides on how to do this are available from Kaltura MediaSpace.

5. Add your module team contact information

You should include the key people who may need to be contacted by students enrolled onto the module. Other useful contacts are available via the "Support for Students" link in the left hand menu item.  

Ideally, there should be a photo and full contact information, along with how to make an appointment.

6. Set up your reading list

You will need to set up a link to your Aspire reading list manually. Click here to view the Aspire reading list guide.

7. Build active learning into your course

What matters is what students do with the resources provided, rather than the resources themselves. Online learning activities should enhance classroom-based work and vice-versa. This can be achieved in a variety of ways. For more info see the NILE Organisation S.H.E.D. or speak to a Learning Technologist or Learning Designer.

8. Add your assessment information 

This area should note the assignment deadlines for the module (submission and feedback dates) including re-sit dates. Where there is more than one assessment, then a folder should be created for each assessment, with the assessment code at the start of the title e.g. ES1. For further guidance please see What should I include in my Assessment information?

9. Set up assessments (optional prior to release)

Assessment points can only be used once, and you must create new assessment points each year. The two most common assessment tools are Turnitin for individual written work and Blackboard assignments for group assignments, submissions that students submit attachments or submissions where students upload a Kaltura video. Other tools are also available for assessments including Journals, Blogs and Test.

For guidance on selecting the correct tool for your assessment view these NILE guides. 

If you would like help setting up your assessments, please contact the Learning Technology team by email: learntech@northampton.ac.uk or call (ext) 2696.

10. Check the site meets the NILE standards

The NILE standards contain guidance on what to place in each area of your site and information on the standards for accessibility and blended learning. Click here to view NILE standards.

11. Use the student preview feature to check your content is visible

Before releasing your site, check the content is available to students by using the Student Preview feature built into the Blackboard interface. View Blackboard guide on using Student Preview.

12. Release your sites

You need to release your site before the beginning of term so new students can begin to start their learning journey. View guide on making a site available.