What is an eText?
eText is the shorthand term that describes the emerging digital version of textbooks and other educational resources. eTexts are inclusive of content such as workbooks, problem sets, tutorials, videos, simulations, and interactive software.
Is a printed option of an eText available for students? Yes. Baylor believes that printing options are an essential element of any viable eText offering. Under the current agreements with publishers, students are allowed to print directly on their own printers (without fee) or obtain a high quality, professionally bound version of the eText shipped directly to them for an additional cost.
How do students access their eTexts?
eTexts available through the Baylor eText Book Pilot are accessed via Blackboard. Once a student signs into Blackboard, and accesses the course section e-Textbook Pilot, they will see a tab for Getting to Courseload on the left side of the page. Clicking on this tab will provide students access to Courseload and their eTexts.
What is the format of the e-texts?
Currently, McGraw-Hill’s e-texts are in PDF format. We are told that by fall, ePUB format should be available. We’ll update this FAQ as we learn more.
What e-reader software will be used and what platforms are supported?
The e-reader software is Courseload; more information about the product and company is located here: http://www.courseload.com/ Courseload operates on any web-enabled device with a modern browser (i.e., that can handle HTML 5). A student will need access to a computer, laptop, tablet or smart-phone (including iOS and Android devices) in order to use the e-reader and access the text. The student can read the e-text on multiple devices. The Courseload software must be installed by the student onto the device. Connection to the Internet is required for software installation.
