⚠️ NameCoach is No Longer Available in Blackboard
What happened? The NameCoach integration that you may have used to help professors and classmates pronounce your name correctly has been discontinued.
Good news! Blackboard has built-in features that let you record how to pronounce your name and add phonetic spelling directly in your student profile. Your professors and classmates can access this information whenever they need it.
✨ Why Add Your Name Pronunciation to Blackboard?
Help create a more inclusive classroom experience for everyone:
- Your professors can pronounce your name correctly during class discussions and presentations
- Your classmates can address you properly in group projects and discussions
- You feel more comfortable participating when people know how to say your name
- It's always available - once you set it up, it shows up throughout Blackboard
📝 How to Add Your Name Pronunciation in Blackboard
🎙️ Option 1: Record Your Name (Audio)
- Log into Blackboard using your MCPHS username and password
- Click on your name in the main left navigation
- In the "Pronunciation" field, click "Add Pronunciation"
- Click "Record Name Pronunciation" and allow Blackboard to access your microphone
- Say your name clearly - you have 20 seconds to record
- Listen to your recording and re-record if needed
- Click "Save" to update your profile
📖 Option 2: Add Phonetic Spelling
- Follow steps 1-3 above to get to your profile settings
- In the "Pronunciation" text field, type how your name sounds using common pronunciation:
Examples: "Catherine" = "KATH-rin" or "José" = "ho-SAY" - Use hyphens to separate syllables clearly
- Capitalize stressed syllables to show emphasis
- Test it out by reading your phonetic spelling aloud
- Save your changes to make it visible to others
💡 Student Tips for Better Name Pronunciation
- Recording quality: Find a quiet space and speak clearly - avoid background noise from your dorm or common areas
- Phonetic spelling: Use sounds that are easy to recognize (like "ay" for the A in "say")
- Both options work great: You can add both audio recording AND phonetic spelling
- Update anytime: Change your pronunciation info whenever you want throughout the semester
- Check your profile: Make sure your pronunciation shows up when others view your profile
- Encourage classmates: Let your friends know about this feature too!
🆘 Need Help Getting Started?
If you're having trouble setting up your name pronunciation, or if something isn't working the way it should, don't hesitate to reach out for help. The Information Services Help Desk is available 24/7 to assist students.