Technical Skills for Online Learning

If you are uncomfortable using technology, you should consider whether a distance learning course is the best option for you.

Why are technical skills important for online learners?

Strong technical skills are important for online learners because they enable seamless navigation of digital classrooms, reduce learning friction, and prepare students for modern remote workforces. Core benefits include mastering learning management systems, troubleshooting minor tech issues independently, and communicating effectively through digital tools.

Platform Navigation and Efficiency

Accessing Coursework

Knowing how to log into systems, find syllabi, and track assignment calendars prevents missed deadlines.

Digital Focus

Learners must filter through huge amounts of online data, use virtual collaboration spaces well, and avoid web distractions.

Reduced Stress

Focusing energy on course subjects rather than fighting with software leads to better grades and higher completion rates.

Independent Troubleshooting

Fixing basic internet errors, audio/video settings, or browser glitches keeps study time on track without waiting for help desks.

File Management

Saving, organizing, and converting documents (like PDFs and Word files) ensures work is submitted correctly and safely backed up.

Career Readiness

Remote Work Prep

Building digital literacy mirrors the exact communication and productivity tools used in hybrid or remote jobs.

Communication and Collaboration

Virtual Participation

Using video calls, chat rooms, and discussion boards helps students engage actively with professors and peers.

Digital Teamwork

Sharing cloud-based documents (like Google Drive) allows groups to work on projects together from different places.

ACC Technology Support Resources

ACCelerators at the Highland, Rio Grande, Round Rock, and San Gabriel campuses

Learning Labs at all campuses

Student Technology Services at all campuses with support online and by phone

Technical Skills for Distance Learning

Distance learning students need a combination of general computer literacy and specific skills for online learning environments.

Specific areas of technical skills you need are:

Foundational Computer Skills

Basic Computer Operation: Being comfortable with fundamental computer tasks like using a mouse and keyboard, navigating the operating system, and managing files (saving, copying, moving, deleting).
Internet Navigation: Using web browsers, understanding URLs, and performing effective web searches.
Software Proficiency: Being familiar with word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
Email and Communication: Knowing how to send and receive emails, attach files, and potentially use other communication tools like messaging apps or discussion forums.
Software Installation and Security: Having basic knowledge of installing software and understanding the importance of security (e.g., virus protection).
Accounts: Creating new accounts for online sites.

Online Learning Specific Skills

Learning Management System (LMS): Being comfortable navigating and using Blackboard Ultra.
Digital Communication: Effectively using email, discussion forums, video conferencing tools (like Zoom or Teams), and potentially other collaboration platforms.
File Management: Knowing how to save, organize, and submit assignments in various digital formats.
Multimedia Skills: Using webcams, microphones, and potentially other multimedia tools.
Troubleshooting: Being able to identify and troubleshoot basic technical issues (e.g., internet connection problems, software glitches).
Adaptability: Being open to learning new technologies

Protecting Your Data & Privacy

Common Sense Media (22 February 2024) offers 7 tips for protecting your data and privacy:

1) Use strict privacy settings. Whenever you can, opt out of sharing your location and data.

2) Be careful with personal info. Know what data to keep private, including identifiable information like phone numbers, birthdays, addresses, and Social Security numbers, depending on the situation and its requirements.

3) Create strong usernames and passwords. To keep your account secure, never include personal details in your account name or password. Consider your digital footprint and select appropriate, inoffensive usernames. To create strong passwords:

Make it long, unique, and memorable. Your password should be easy for you to remember, but hard for others to guess. Plus, it's harder to crack passwords that have eight or more letters and characters.
Avoid recognizable words and personal information. Use a random mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Don't include your name, phone number, birthday, or address.
Update your passwords regularly. In case someone does guess a password, they won't be able to get into your account for long.
Store passwords away safely. Consider using a password manager to store your passwords.

4) Look for a safe URL. Does the URL (also known as the link) begin with "https"? The "s" at the end means the website is secure. Make sure that "s" is there both before and after you sign in.

5) Do a password check. Pretend you have forgotten your password and try to recover it online. Does the site display the password or email it? If so, the password is not securely protected. Sites that send a link asking you to create a brand-new password are safer..

6) Skip anything that's not required. If you can create your account without giving away certain personal information, don't offer it up.

7) Be careful with downloads and other links. Spyware, malware, and other harmful software can be embedded in what seem like regular downloads. Consider using antivirus software and apps to keep your devices safe.

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