IDEAS

When will IVLE 8 be launched?

• Tue 22 May IVLE 7 data migration begins. Anything created in IVLE 7 from this date will not be carried over to IVLE 8. Also note that not all data will be migrated.


• Monday 28 May IVLE 8 launches. IVLE 7 available for data transfer. Special term modules continue using IVLE 7.


• Monday 31 December IVLE 7 shut down permanently.

What will happen when IVLE 8 launches?
Generally, you will need to create tools for each module from the bottom up. As IVLE 8 has been rebuilt substantially, only module outlines created in Academic Year 2006/2007 Semester 1 & 2 and AY 2007/2008 Semester 1 will be migrated to the new version.

Additionally, not all tools will be migrated. This is because the old database is not entirely compatible with the new version. Besides the module outlines (module information), only the Assessment (Question) and Survey Banks, and eReserves will be migrated.

You will also need to back up infomation and files which you require. IVLE 7 will remain accessible for this purpose via a link in IVLE 8 until 31 December 2007, after which the old version will be shut down. CIT will consider requests for the migration of tools from previous semesters on a case-by-case basis.

Why is IVLE 8 not backward compatible?
The previous version of IVLE has a code base and a database structure which is several years old.

In order to enable the introduction of new features and to ensure scalability, CIT has had to move to Microsoft .NET Framework Version 2.0 with ASP.NET Version 2.0, an entirely different technology from the previous version. The database structure has also been totally revamped so as to ensure system stability and data integrity.

Ultimately, this means a more pleasant and powerful IVLE experience for both students and academics.

What's new in IVLE 8?

• Workspace customization You can change the workspace theme as well as choose various workspace components.


• User-friendly menus and improved search Drop-down menus on the toolbar and navigation bar allow faster access to frequently used tools. The internal search engine has been tweaked for better accuracy.


• Expanded Course management You can now create sub-modules within a module.


• Module Glossary A glossary has been added so that you can input definitions of technical terms used in the module.


• Improved inline editor Text boxes are equipped with spell check and tables can be added.


• Improved Class Management functions You can now define Laboratory Groups and view group summaries.


• Enhanced Workbin The Workbin is accessible via Windows Explorer view. Workbin storage capacity has been increased and you can now create sub-folders within a Workbin.


• Question Bank integration All Assessment, Survey and Project questions are stored in the Question Bank. The sharing interface has been streamlined.


• Offline support tools You can author Assessments without being connected to the internet via the Respondus offline exam authoring application. The Respondus files can be uploaded to IVLE when you have internet access.


• Forum improvements The user interface has been modified for easier reading and access. You can now restore and publish/unpublish archives.


• Multimedia sharing You can share items in the Multimedia Bank with other academics. Students has a shareable Multimedia Bank too.


• Favourites sharing Both staff and students can share their Favourite bookmarks.


• Integrated web services IVLE is now integrated with NUS Libraries: You can search OPAC and other library resources from within IVLE.


• Provision of RSS feeds The Announcement, Forum, Workbin and Module tools come with RSS feeds for students to be updated of the latest changes.


• Plagiarism Prevention and Webcast integration These can be accessed directly via IVLE.


• K:\Drive (Course Website) integration The K:\Drive can be created and managed within IVLE.


• Community Collaboration Mobile Blogs, My Community (Microsoft SharePoint)

Questions?
Please contact Ms for queries about the IVLE upgrade.