As part of our ongoing efforts to improve the digital learning environment and support accessibility, all media content must be hosted in Panopto rather than Blackboard as of May 23, 2024, starting with the summer term. Media content includes video, web conference recordings, audio clips, etc. Existing media should be migrated to Panopto as soon as possible, and new media can no longer be uploaded to Blackboard.

Blackboard is a useful system for course management and content delivery. However, it is not designed to perform as a media streaming service. DoIT introduced Panopto in 2018 to support video and media distribution following the discontinuation of TechSmith Relay. Media platforms like Panopto provide a better experience for faculty and students alike.

Instructional Technology offers extensive guides, training and support to faculty. Faculty can also request a consultation via RT ticket. 

A year ago, Athletic Director Tim Hall and VP of IT Jack Suess had a vision to bring together UMBC students, young alumni, and outside professionals for sports production. Eli Eisenberg, President of VPC, Inc., and '86 alum, would act as a liaison between UMBC and ESPN, along with helping to train the students in what goes into a broadcast.

In a typical broadcast, there is a crew of 24 people, 14 of which are students. Each student has their own role, from cable management, to being a camera operator, and even mixing the game audio. What results is a high quality production that looks just as good as other ESPN college broadcasts across the country. 

Watch the video below to see the behind the scenes of how it all came together.