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Online Courses

  • Courses use online technology to engage students in course content and activities. There are no standard course meeting times. Class activities and assignments are completed within time frames and deadlines set by the instructor.

What technology do you need?

  • You’ll need reliable access to a computer with an internet connection.
  • If you have concerns about access to technology needed for your courses this fall, the Help Desk is the place to begin to discuss your needs.

How can you set yourself up for success?

  • Actively participate in all online course activities.
  • An online course gives you some flexibility with respect to when you need to complete activities and assignments.
  • Because there are no scheduled class meetings, it is especially important to set aside regular time to work on course activities and assignments.
  • More about success: it is especially important to be proactive and intentional about making connections, as interacting through technology may make it harder to feel connected. In each of your courses, look for opportunities to connect both with your instructor and your classmates. (Remember, everyone wants to be connected!). Consider the following ideas:
    • Attend office hours with the instructor to discuss ideas from the course and/or to get assistance with your learning. (Note that office hours may be virtual).
    • Ask your instructor what the best way is to be connected (e.g., email, Canvas).
    • Consider swapping contact information with other students so you can serve as resources to one another.
    • Use Zoom and other technologies to connect with other students outside of class. Refer to the Learning Remotely page for additional information and resources.
    • Consider setting up study group sessions with classmates outside of class through in person meetings (if you are local) and/or remote meetings (via Zoom).
    • Additional ideas that will apply to all course types are found at the Communicating Online website.