Editor's note: This article is under review following concerns about the validity of quotations and information appearing in other pieces of work by this staff writer. A more detailed explanation of the situation can be found Editor's note: This article is under review following concerns about the validity of quotations and information appearing in other pieces of work by this staff writer. A more detailed explanation of the situation can be found here.
Penn State revealed Thursday that it would extend the use of the ANGEL course management system after trying several alternatives, according to a release on Penn State Live.
"Penn State will benefit in several ways from this decision. Extending support for ANGEL is the most cost-effective solution among the options evaluated, and this course of action will be the least disruptive for students and faculty," the release reads. "Penn State is committed to investing in ANGEL from a user perspective, so that Information Technology Services can work to reduce daily maintenance needs, address accessibility concerns, and investigate Blackboard's mobile learning capabilities."
In 2009, Penn State did not have the choice of holding onto the ANGEL system because its parent company, Blackboard, intended to cease its support, according to the release. In response, the university began searching for another learning management system.
"Blackboard reversed its decision in March 2012 and indicated it would continue to support ANGEL. When the option of retaining ANGEL again became available, the committee reevaluated the product options and found it in the best interest of the Penn State community to continue support for ANGEL," according to the release.
Some students said they welcomed the renewal of the website, rather than coveting a new way to check assignments and connect with peers and faculty.
Dennis Do (freshman-division of undergraduate studies) said he considers ANGEL to be an accommodating and supportive approach to organizing his work.
"I believe it's a great system," said Do. "It really helps me stay in touch with my classmates and overall it really facilitates anything my professors want us to do."
Liam Quinlan-Walshe (freshman-business administration) is pleased with the system Penn State provided for him in his first semester at the university.
"It's not too bad," said Quinlan-Walshe. "It's relatively easy to use but it could be better organized to connect students and professors together."
Alan Patterson (freshman-engineering) is satisfied with ANGEL and doesn't believe it should be changed.
"ANGEL is perfectly fine," said Patterson. "Like they say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Penn State will still be obtaining cooperation from Blackboard, the parent company of ANGEL, according to the release.
