Blackboard.com alertnatives please?

Question

Hi. I'm a big fan of a great interface that's user friendly, modern-looking, and intuitive. Does anyone please have some suggestions re alternate products? Specifically, my needs are two-fold: 1) a great engine for Q&A for students; and 2) a great online course alternative. If anyone has some beautiful, modern, cool sites that you think I should check out, I'd REALLY be so appreciative! Someone mentioned one recently to me that sounded like "Filipino" or something but I lost the card. Thank you 10x !!

Answer 1

look at ning.com

It's actually a social network, but they do have a template for educators.  I like it because it is a password protected site that requires users to have passwords to access the site, you can also set up discussion boards and forms and blogs and all that good stuff.  The best part is you can post pictures, videos, music, and even documents (think homework!)

It is free, but the free site has banner ads that may not be completely appropriate for school, depending on the grade you teach.  It is $20 monthly for banner-free sites.

Good luck!