This page will help you prepare for online learning, whether your course(s) were delivered online from the very beginning or switched to an online format mid-semester. Follow the recommendations below to ensure you are ready to learn remotely.
Even though you’re learning remotely, you’re not alone.
Check out the resources below and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Access Files and Apps from Home
Update and Secure Your Devices
Plan Your Time
Schedule Your Learning
Attending Class Remotely
Think about files and applications you’ll need to access from home.
Zoom is a virtual meeting application that is used for videoconferencing, screen sharing, and remote lectures and can be downloaded to your device or accessed from any web browser. Go to su.zoom.com and log in using your SU network credentials. Once you’ve configured your account, start a Test Meeting to make sure your computer or mobile device is ready to join a Zoom meeting.
Office 365 applications such as OneDrive, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote can also be accessed online with browser-based applications and can be downloaded to your personal devices. Visit How do I install Office 365 for instructions.
Talk to your instructor if you think you’ll need access to any collaboration tools, like Google Drive for file sharing.
Ensure your devices are updated and secure.
Regardless of whether you are accessing your courses on your SU-provided devices or personal devices, you’ll need to take extra steps to make sure your work stays secure. Be sure to check for iOS updates on your Mac and updates for each of the applications you will be using.
To further secure your devices, you should enable 2-Step Authentication whenever possible. See Google 2step Verification for help.
Plan your time and submit assignments early, when possible.
Remember, you won’t have the reminder of being in class each week to prompt you to remember due dates and upcoming tests. Seeing everything laid out in a planner or calendar can make online classes less overwhelming and help you plan/prioritize.
Get those assignments in early and avoid the stress. Be sure you are following your instructor’s directions for submitting your assignments (i.e. via Canvas assignment, email attachment, etc.)
Schedule Time for Learning.
Set time aside each day to watch recorded lectures, read materials, and complete assignments. This will prevent everything from piling up and overwhelming you.
We all know time management is important. Some students who have taken online classes say it is even more important to keep on top of your daily schedule. If you are not a morning person, you may not want to plan to listen to a lecture at 8:00 am. Play to your strengths, using the advantages and flexibility that online learning provides, and figure out ways that work for you to keep track on track.
Schedule online tutoring sessions to help keep on track. Go to star.su.edu to see what is available.
Prepare to Attend Class Remotely via Zoom.
Your regularly-scheduled class time may be moved online, so you’ll want to become familiar with using Zoom for video conferencing. Check out the Student User Guide for Zoom Video Conferencing.
To brush up on your videoconferencing netiquette, review Student Tips for Participating in Online Learning for helpful tips for student success.
Review the Student Tech Quick Start Guide.
To make sure you know about all the technologies available to you as a student and how to use them, review the Student Tech Quick Start Guide for a refresher.
Check Canvas Regularly.
Make sure you know when new material is posted. To ensure you are alerted when new materials are posted or when announcements have been made, adjust your Canvas notification preferences accordingly. Refer to How do I set my Canvas notification preferences as a student for instructions.
Download the Canvas app to your device. Check it regularly for updates, notifications, and due dates.
Avoid Connectivity Issues.
Use a wired internet connection whenever possible.
If you are using WiFi, limit the number of devices accessing the same WiFi network simultaneously.
If you are taking an online exam, close all other browser windows or tabs and save your test answers frequently. Be sure you are adhering to the testing guidelines your instructor has been provided and the practices and policies of the Academic Integrity Code.
Communicate Often and Ask For Help When Needed.
If you have questions, ask your professor. Remember to email them using your SU email address.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and would like help getting yourself organized, schedule an academic coaching session with a staff member from the Office of Learning Resources. Sign up information for these sessions will be provided via Canvas announcement and in the SUN-e.
Who to Contact for Help
The Office of Learning Resources collaborates with students, faculty, and staff to create an educational environment that is equitable and inclusive for all members of the university community.
The Math Enrichment Center provides assistance with homework, material review, and test preparation.
The Writing Center provides one-to-one instruction in writing for all SU students.
The Office of Advising provides advising for all undergraduate students.
The Wilkins Wellness Center maintains an outpatient health center and provides outpatient medical treatment for acute and minor illness and injury.
The Counseling Center offers short term personal counseling.
The Smith Library provides personalized reference and research assistance to students, faculty, and staff in locating information and using library resources.
The Help Desk is available for assistance with all things technology-related.