• How can I get technical assistance?
• How do I attach my work to my email?
• How do I use the Kentucky Virtual Library
• How do I take a proctored exam?
• Where do I take proctored exams?
• I have forgotten my password, what should I do?
• What are the minimum requirements?
• When does my course begin?

How can I get technical assistance? (top of page)

For all technical assistance, you can contact the WKU Help Desk at 270-745-7000, email bbhelp@atech.wku.edu, or visit the Blackboard Online Support System.

How do I attach my work to my email? (top of page)

Since all WKU online students are eligible to receive a free WKU email account, it is recommended that you use the WKU system to interact with your professor.

*Before you send your document to your professor, you should make sure they can open the type of file you are sending. All Western professors either have Microsoft Word 2003 installed or have access to it, and many professors will have other programs. It is your responsibility to send the file in a format that your instructor can open.

The first step to sending an attached file is to save it in a location that you will be able to find. You may find that it is easiest to save the files you are planning to attach to your desktop for easy access. Once you have saved your files, you will then need to open your email account and compose the message you wish to send to your professor. On the bottom of the composition screen there will be a section labeled Attachment 1 with a place to type in the file name or you can click on the Browse button to find your file. Click Open and you will be taken back to the Compose screen and you will see your filename in the attachment box. You might want to try this out on a friend until you feel comfortable with the process.

How do I use the Kentucky Virtual Library? (top of page)

All WKU online students are eligible to gain access to the KYVL database. For more information on how to use the database click here. To get the current password you may contact the WKU Libraries Reference Desk 270-745-6125. If you are a Kentucky resident, you may also get the password from your local library.

How do I take a proctored exam? (top of page)

Proctored exams are administered by the Office of Correspondence Study. To sign up for your exam you must follow the procedures listed on their examination information page. For more information, you may call the office at 1-270-745-4158 or 1-270-745-4159 or email them at ocs@wku.edu.

Where do I take proctored exams? (top of page)

The Office of Correspondence Study maintains a database of Kentucky testing centers, however it is the student's responsibility to set up a time and send in the examination request form. Students residing out of state must contact the nearest College or University and complete the out-of-state portion of the examination request form to have their exams sent to an appropriate proctor. If you have any questions you may contact the Office of Correspondence Study at 1-270-745-4158 or 1-270-745-4159 or email them at ocs@wku.edu.

I have forgotten my password, what should I do? (top of page)

To reset your password, go to this WKU IT Email information webpage.

What are the minimum requirements? (top of page)

• Windows 2000 or greater or a Macintosh with Mac OS 10 or greater.
• Internet Explorer 6.0 or Netscape 8.1- follow the links to download them for free
• Internet service (home services may be by phone modem, cable modem or DSL)
• Internet access with an email account
• Specialized software when it is specifically required for the course. Check the course information in the syllabus in the online schedule bulletin.

When does my course begin? (top of page)

WKU online courses usually follow the Student Academic Calendar. You will be able to access your course information on the first day of classes. If you are not sure, please email your instructor.