Direct Digital Access FAQ

What is Direct Digital Access?

Direct Digital Access (DDA) is the system that provides immediate access to class content before the first day of class – at a reduced cost. This can also be referred to as inclusive access or IA. DDA is a program used in conjunction with Black Hawk College, VitalSource, and textbook publishers to assure the student receives the highest quality content without breaking the student’s budget.

DDA can refer to two different types of online content:

• A DDA that is only an e-book. This means you have access to an online version of the book required for your class. This book is offered at a significant discount, compared to print versions.
• A DDA that is courseware. This means you have access to an online version of the book required for your class + built-in assignments, quizzes, or other materials your instructor deems important.

Please reach out to your instructor directly if you have questions on what kind of content you are getting. They will be able to tell you if your DDA is an e-book or courseware. 

How Much Does Direct Digital Access Cost?

The cost of Direct Digital Access differs by class. The cost is considerably less expensive than buying a new hardcopy of a textbook. The cost will be listed on the “Select Textbook” section of the website. Additional billing information can be found on the "Important Dates" section.

How do I find out if my course uses DDA?

Go to “Select Textbook” and enter your class information. Then click “View Your Materials.” If a class has a DDA it will be listed like the screenshot below (prices vary by class):

My class uses DDA. How do I find the materials on Canvas?

Please visit the page "How to Access." 

Can I opt out?

Yes, you can opt out any time before the opt out deadline (see "Important Dates"). While you are automatically opted in, opting out is not an automatic process and must be done manually!

 What does opting out mean?

To opt out means that you don’t wish to receive your materials through the reduced cost DDA program. Your access is removed during the opt out period.  Please be aware these materials are required by your instructor, so you will need to find your materials elsewhere!

How do I opt out?

In your class' Canvas menu, click on "VitalSource Course Materials" and then follow the instructions. The screen will be similar to below:

If I accidentally opted out, can I opt back in after the deadline?

If you want to opt in AFTER the deadline has passed, you will need to contact us at this email address: Bookstoregroup@bhc.edu. We will need your name, student ID number, and the course and section of the class. Please note we are only able to opt you back in during business hours, and it may take up to 24 hours to see your materials again.

I failed a course that I am taking again and it uses the same DDA I already paid for. Should I opt out?

Double check on how long your access to the DDA lasts. All DDAs have different access! Some have one semester only while others have lifetime access. If you have access for more than a semester, you shouldn’t pay for the materials again, so make sure to manually opt out.

Can I get a printed copy of the Direct Digital Access e-book?

Yes, but not always. If it has been adopted, a low-cost printed copy of your e-book is available from the bookstore, but is only to supplement the DDA materials (not replace them). This book will be listed on the bookstore website as a Print Upgrade.

I am having trouble accessing my materials. Who do I need to contact?

It is best to reach out to your instructor first. They may be able to help troubleshoot the issue you are having. If they are unable to help, you can submit a ticket through the below links. Please note if you click on these links, they will redirect you to a different site!

VitalSource: VitalSource Support This support link is only for VitalSource provided e-books.

Cengage: Cengage Support This support link is only for Cengage products (such as MindTap).

Pearson: Pearson Support This support link is only for Pearson products (such as MyLab or Mastering).

McGraw Hill: McGraw Hill Support This support link is only for McGraw Hill products (such as Connect).

WW Norton: WW Norton Support This support link is only for WW Norton products.

What if I have further questions?

If you have further questions, please contact us at Bookstoregroup@bhc.edu