You have decided to start, come back or continue your education. Whether it is your first or your last, each semester can be exciting and scary. Plus you will use both campus and online resources daily. If you are not “tech savvy”, then taking online classes is a little scarier! This site is here to help with both advice on how to take classes and how to use technology like Blackboard. There’s information on how to submit assignments, participate in discussions boards, and even how to record and share videos for class presentations!

Just like most technologies, there is a user manual. This is your user manual. 

This section, Getting Started, starts with some advice on how to take classes where you will need to do some work online, whether for a campus or fully online class. This advice will cover all types of classes here at STCC. 

Know the practices and expectations for your class

When doing anything online, know what you are doing. There is a myth that online courses are easy. We call it a myth because it’s not true. Online classes can be challenging, just like face-to-face classes. Online classes have the same course materials, assignments, discussions, and tests as your face-to-face classes. Online classes are just online. Whether you are in a classroom or virtual classroom, make sure you know what is expected and ask questions when you don’t. 

Have a place to do coursework

Consider finding a place where you can focus and get work done. Whether it's here on campus, a coffee shop or home, make a space that is helpful. Try to find a place where there are minimal distractions, where you can be as effective as possible. If you are working at home, ask family and friends to give you space, if possible. Have a designated time where you can't be interrupted, and if lucky, maybe can close a door. Even if it's not perfect, try to find that space. It does make a difference. 

Why are you taking this class? 

Think about your personal goals and expectations for each course. Classes are offered for a reason, so why is what you are learning important? You’ll get more out of the course, if you know. Introductory courses are usually the basis for all future classes in the program, or help with your future professional development. Know what will motivate you to succeed. 

Plan, plan, plan.

Staying organized is an important way to stay on track, but also be a successful student and eventually professional in your field. Consider the following strategies to be an effective planner. 

• 1. Get a calendar or planner.

  2. Knowing when all your work is important. Not only does it help you plan when you should start writing or studying, you’ll also when you will be the busiest. More importantly, managing your time well will help you manage other important responsibilities in your life better. 

  3. Use your STCC Google Calendar to schedule class times, appointments, and due dates. Put dates you should start thinking about working on be projects as well as the date to complete the work. You can set up notifications on your email and mobile device to remind you. 

Use task or to-do lists 

Whether on paper or using a mobile app, use tasks or to-do lists for daily, weekly and monthly tasks to complete. 

Take breaks and set timers

You have a lot on your plate, and taking breaks is something you don’t consider, but breaks actually make you more productive. Intention breaks from work even just, “pausing for a moment to relax and reboot is essential for achieving productivity, success, and a positive outlook on the future” (Writers, 2019). Consider taking a quick walk or a power nap to get you charged up to keep going. 

Stay on schedule

Life happens, things come up, and we all get sidetracked. Even trying to stay on schedule will help you “try” to keep your life in check. The reward of sticking to your life goals will matter in the end.  

Ask for help when you need it.

If you are lost or confused, it is okay to ask for help! You can ask someone on campus if you need help finding an office, or you can ask your professor for help with homework or papers. 

Review, revise, repeat. 

People often say they write best under pressure. Not true. Stress might be a great motivator, but it doesn’t mean what you will create will be good. Set the deadline of the paper at least a couple days ahead, and then use the Writing Center to have someone review your paper. Your revision will be far better than your first draft. 

Participate in online discussions.

Whether in the classroom or online, getting to talk with fellow classmates and your faculty member will help you form your thoughts and arguments better, revise your writing, and get to know someone better.

Know Tech Support & Resources

Technology can be helpful, but it's not always perfect. If you ever have trouble using your devices or programs, there are people who can help you. Visit theIT Student Help Desk page for more information about getting assistance. If you need help with Blackboard, you can email online@stcc.edu.

 Attend any in-person and webinar orientations that might be available

Your program and some offices might send emails about attending orientation or welcome meetings. 

Know how to login into Campus eTools

Make sure you can access the following resources: the Student Portal, WebAdvisor, your STCC Google Account. If you are taking an online course, make sure you can access Blackboard. You received a letter about Blackboard access in the mail. All these tools can be found and accessed through the eTool menu on the STCC website. 

So those are just a few pieces of advice. 

Getting ready to take classes, campus or online can be scary. Consider some of this advice, and please ask for help and you can do it! Good luck with your courses. It’s great to have you here at STCC!