Prometheus: Part of the GWUMC Experience

Prometheus, a course management software, was developed here at The George Washington University. It is the University's response to the faculty's request for a tool to get classes online, either for distance education courses or as an online component to traditional courses. Prometheus offers faculty a method to put their course and reserve materials on the web; and, it provides students with the flexibility to view course materials from campus or from any off-campus location. The number of classes using Prometheus is increasing rapidly.

How do I know that Prometheus is being used in my class? Your instructor will tell you about Prometheus in class. You will also be given a course ID and password to access the course materials through the web.

What do I need to use Prometheus? If you are planning to use a computer from home, you need an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISPs offer internet access packages ranging from free to very expensive. For those new to the area or anyone wanting to change providers, use http://thelist.internet.com to see the options available in your area. The site will allow you to search by area code. Each provider offers a summary of their service.

How do I access Prometheus? Once you have established an ISP, go to the Prometheus site, http://prometheus.gwu.edu. Click on "Create New Student Account". Fill in the form with name, email, user name and password, then click "Submit". Record your user name and password for future use. Once you have created your personal account, you can join a course. The instructor will have give you the course ID and password.

Each instructor has decided which of the course materials will be included in Prometheus. Possibilities range from the course syllabus and lecture notes to slides and electronic reserves. None of this material will be available without the course ID and password. Print copies of reserves are also available in the Himmelfarb Library.