Digital Learning @ Brown

As online students, you are expected to have familiarity with some basic technological applications. You are also expected to have access to a computer that can be connected to the internet and on which statistical software, as well as web conferencing applications, can be installed. All courses will be published through the Canvas Learning Management platform. Other tools you will frequently use are Zoom Web Conferencing software, Peerceptive and Ed Discussion. Additionally, individual courses may require additional LTIs and software, as outlined by the course syllabi, so it is essential that students review syllabi as soon as courses open. DLD manages full list of supported digital teaching tools.

Learn more about available resources for students.

As you prepare to participate in your online graduate degree program, we have some information and expectations to share to help you succeed. 

Course Structure

All content, assignments, and assessments will be delivered through Canvas. The course spans 14 modules over 14 weeks.

Syllabus Review

It’s crucial to review the syllabus thoroughly once it’s available. Pay close attention to assignment due dates and the late policy. Additionally, all required software and learning tools will be included in the syllabus, so we encourage you to review your syllabus once you gain access to your course and ensure you are set up for success. 

Pace of Courses

These courses are structured and not self-paced. You'll progress through the material as outlined by the course schedule.

Instructor Assignments

The faculty member who designed the course may not necessarily be the instructor for your semester. However, all instructors who teach in Brown's online programs are renowned researchers, educators and practitioners in their field who come together to weave a rich learning experience for learners.

Communication

Instructors will frequently use announcements to relay important information. It’s essential to regularly check your email and course announcements.

Synchronous Sessions

While not mandatory, synchronous sessions are highly recommended. If you cannot attend, recordings will be available. Be proactive and reach out to your instructor with any questions.

Office Hours and Q&A

Take advantage of office hours and the Q&A discussion boards to seek clarification and assistance.

Time Commitment

Plan to dedicate 12-14 hours per week per course. Effective time management and scheduling will be key, especially for busy, working professionals. Review our online study tips for guidance.

Netiquette Guide

Netiquette, or “network etiquette,” is a term used in online spaces that refers to the norms and conventions for “...using the Internet as a tool for communication or data exchange, practiced or advocated by a group of people.”  It provides a standard set of guidelines of acceptable behaviors and considerations for participants to ensure a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all members of the digital community. Due to the evolving nature of the digital landscape, netiquette guidelines are flexible; however, they are always developed with diverse cultural dimensions in mind.

A student’s name on any assignment is regarded as assurance that the assignment is the result of the student’s own thoughts and study, stated in their own words, and produced without assistance (except as quotation marks, references, and footnotes that acknowledge the use of printed sources or other outside help). Please refer to Brown’s academic code.

Lectures and other course materials are copyrighted. Students are prohibited from reproducing, making copies, publicly displaying, selling, or otherwise distributing the recordings or transcripts of the materials. The only exception is that students with disabilities may have the right to record for their private use if that method is determined to be a reasonable accommodation by Student Accessibility Services. Disregard of the University's copyright policy and federal copyright law is a Student Code of Conduct violation.

Additionally, all incoming graduate students at Brown University are required to complete an online training on the rules and conduct defined in the academic code and student code. 

Brown’s Office of Information Technology is available to support your technology needs. Their website offers multiple modes to contact the OIT Service Center, as well as Knowledgebase guides for frequently asked questions, how-to guides, and troubleshooting instructions.

Functionality

The best functionality for course material in Canvas will be to use a laptop or computer, rather than a mobile device to access course content. We recommend that you review the IT Service Center minimum specifications for personal computers, especially if you are considering purchasing equipment. 

Please note that for best functionality regarding accessing content in your Canvas course, it is recommended that you use Google Chrome for your browser. If using other browsers, please ensure that you have the most updated versions (Mozilla Firefox or Apple Safari).

Technical Skills

Academic programs require the following technical skills:

• Navigate and use Canvas

• Use email and send/open attachments

• Create, store, and share files (including online files) such as documents, spreadsheets, slides, and more

• Download and install software

• Use web conferencing tools and software such as Zoom

• Use online libraries and databases

• Use online search tools for academic purposes

Software

• All students are provided a license to Microsoft Office 365

  • How to download for free through Brown OIT

• Adobe Acrobat DC (for PDFs)

• Please refer to your Canvas course page for any program-specific software.

Connect to Brown’s VPN (PC & Mac)

Most off-campus access is now integrated with your Brown username and password (including access to Library resources such as journals, databases, and ebooks). A few Library eresources, such as SciFinder, require a VPN.

Learning Technologies

Access provided in Canvas course

• Canvas - learning management system where all courses (including course materials like resources and assignments) will be available. You’ll be provided access in Canvas to your registered courses approximately 1 week prior to the start of the semester. 

• Zoom - virtual conference system for optional synchronous session and instructor office hours, learn more at Brown OIT Zoom.

• Ed Discussion - used for Q&A boards to ask questions about content, assignments, etc. 

• Harmonize - used for graded discussions in your courses

Occasionally, classes will use additional learning technologies, in which case your course instructor will provide resources to ensure you feel comfortable using the learning technologies. 

Due to the online asynchronous format of the program, the majority of communication will occur using digital tools, such as through chat, email, and discussion boards. The exception is the optional synchronous session, which allows for face-to-face communication via the Zoom meeting platform.

When communicating with your instructors and peers, it is important to follow best practices for specific modes of communication.