Step 7: Instant Messenger

Once you complete this section, you should be able to

• Log into AOL Instant Messenger (AIM)
• Add Buddies in AIM
• Page Buddies in AIM
• Hold and attend group chats in AIM

As part of the course activities, you will be required to communicate using AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) software. AIM is free to use and does NOT require you to subscribe to AOL's online service in any way. However, if you already use AOL, your AIM screen name can be the same as your AOL screen name.

The following link will take you to the AIM homepage:

http://dashboard.aim.com/aim

Here, you will be able to download and install AIM. Once you have AIM installed, use the "Help" features to get started. You will need to login and send a message to the HRE Online Support Team (buddy name is "HRE UIUC"). The screen names of your fellow students will be available via the Teams/People link on the course home page.

*Note: If you are logging onto the Internet through a LAN connection (e.g., from your workplace), you may have problems using an Instant Messenger because of "firewalls." Please check with your organization's information technology department and make sure they do not have any firewalls set up that will prohibit the use of AIM.

If you encounter any technical problems when trying to complete this section, contact HRE Online Technical Support.