Online Learning Guide
By enrolling in an online course, you've identified yourself as a person who is comfortable on the computer. If that's not the case, online learning may not be for you. You don't need to be a computer whiz, but you do need to know the basics of internet navigation and email. You will need reliable online access, a 56K modem speed or higher, Windows 98 or later operating system, MS Word 97 (or later version) and PowerPoint 98 (or later version), as well as a standard browser - Internet Explorer 5.0 or later or Netscape 6.0 or later (not AOL!) and an e-mail account. You should plan to use that computer at least twice a week.
You can access your online course from any computer. You are responsible for arranging the use of an alternative computer (including a public library and/or the Chabot library or lab) in case you experience technical difficulties with your home computer or internet connection. Having technical problems is not an excuse for not completing the class activities. No time extension will be given because of technical problems you may encounter without my approval.
If you're new to online learning, there are a few important considerations.
First, you'll need to be quite self-disciplined. No teacher will be looking over your shoulder or asking you for your homework assignment. Since it's vitally important to keep up with the material, all due dates are firm--remember, all assignments are due by 11:55 p.m. Sunday evening of each class week. So, develop a study schedule that works for your and stick to it. You might want to check in on Monday of each week to read the lecture and remind yourself of your assignments for the week. You then might want to complete your reading and your discussion posting (if that's an assignment) by Thursday. You'll then have the weekend to complete your quiz, or problem set, or exam, or project. Plan on spending at least six hours a week on this class. On this week's quiz, you'll be asked to outline your study schedule, so plan it now!
Second, I won't be able to tell by your puzzled facial expression that you don't understand something. You need to speak up--send me an email asking questions, find a "class buddy" that you can work with (try looking through the introductory discussion board postings, finding someone with a similar background or similar schedule or similar interests, and send them an email), post your questions to the Discussion Board. Take responsibility for ensuring you understand the material.
Third, recognize that you're subject to the whims of technology. When you're working on an assignment, save it frequently. Keep copies of every document you submit, and copy your discussion posts as well. Leave yourself with extra time to submit your assignments just in case you have a computer problem. Technology may fail us, and these back-up documents and extra time may make the difference between being able to complete assignments on time or not, on getting points for your hard work or not. If you have a problem, you can get help from our "Technology Help" discussion board, from Chabot's Blackboard Help website, or from me.
There are numerous websites that provide advice on online learning. Visit both of these for useful tips:
The Business Division also offers Online Learning Orientations at the start of each semester for those of you that are new to online learning or experienced with online learning but unfamiliar with Blackboard. You'll find these sessions very helpful, and you earn extra credit just for attending. Details on dates/times are in this week's Orientation in the Learning Modules section of the course.
Online learning is convenient and flexible, and studies show that students learn as well online as they do in a classroom. Just remember these tips, and you should do quite well!
