Check out the additional resources we have for your success!
Now that you have a good idea of what to expect in your online classroom, are you excited to get started?
But, wait, there's more!
Now that you're more comfortable with online learning, the layout of an online classroom, video seminars and checking your technology, what's next?
Well, it's important to remember that, just as in a traditional classroom, your success in an online classroom is in your hands. Here are some tips to get you started:
Use tools like a weekly planner to keep track of assignments for each class.
If possible, find a quiet place to log into class and to study. Turn off ringers and pop-up notifications.
Share with family and friends how important this is to you. Ask them to help out on busy class days.
Centralize all your important class deadlines, work related dates and family related items in one place. This way you can maximize your time by utilizing small pockets of free time to read a chapter or view an instructional video.
Plan ahead.
Read over the class calendar and syllabi from ALL your classes.
Circle all due dates.
Enter ALL dates into your smartphone's calendar.
PRO TIP: Set up reminders for Mid-Term and Final Exams, major essays and high point value assignments. Give yourself at least 2 weeks of preparation time.
Talk to your professor.
Seriously! Introduce yourself on the first day.
Ask when office hours are held (add to your calendar!).
Contact them with questions; they're here to help you.
Go to Class.
Turn in your assignments!
Make your Technology work for YOU!
Test your camera and microphone BEFORE your first Zoom session.
Set up a professional background and dress appropriately. If you wouldn't wear it to visit your grandparents, then it's probably not a good look for class.
Try using an external microphone. YES, your computer has an external mic. But it will NOT convey a high quality audio signal. Even earbuds with built in mic will typically work better.
Turn your camera ON! Your classmates and professor want to see you. It helps them with non-verbal cues.
INTERACT! Use the chat to ask questions, share your opinion or just signal you're following along with the concepts. Zoom also has great icons you can use to share your reactions.
O.K., this should go without saying but . . . STAY for your entire ZOOM class! Why short-change yourself by getting only half of the information? And make it harder on yourself to succeed?
Advising: Need an appointment with an advisor this summer? Virtual appointments are available now. You are not required to make an appointment with your assigned advisor. However, you should make an appointment with an advisor from the appropriate academic division. If you need to make a first-time advising appointment, watch First-time Appointment Video.
Tutoring: Talk with a Columbia State tutor, live, via Zoom for help with math, science and writing topics. Check our site for updates on how you can visit a tutor for help with classroom subjects, test prep or career resources. Learn how to make appointments in Navigate.
NEWSFLASH: You can make your own tutoring appointments using the handy Navigate app. Learn how here!
Library: In this day of easy online access, it’s easy to forget the original one-stop shop for information—the library. When it comes to information, the Internet is like an ocean—vast and difficult to know what can be trusted and where to find it. The Library’s knowledgeable staff is here to assist you.
Free MS Office 365: Instructions on how to get this:
Go to https://Portal.Office.com and enter your Columbia State email address (someone@ColumbiaState.edu) and your password (same password you use for ChargerNet).
Install and run the apps.
For more detailed instructions, click Installation Instructions. (Note: Outlook is coming soon. Until then, access your email from https://mail10.columbiastate.edu or through the link in ChargerNet.)
Disability Resource Center: The Disability Resource Center (DRC) is available for students with a documented diagnosed disability.The purpose of the DRC is to provide academic accommodation and additional supports while ensuring equal access to the Columbia State curriculum and programs.
Mental Care and Self-Care Tips: Our routines have been changed drastically which can cause stress, anxiety, frustration, worry and irritability. Please know our services are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. via HIPAA compliant telehealth video chat Theranest or through phone sessions.
Online Campus Orientation: Check out our comprehensive orientation with 32 units of jam-packed information. It's an encyclopedia for Online Campus you can use anytime.
Oh No! moments and how to deal with them (HINT: We're here to help):
I'm behind in my classes!
First of all, don't panic. Call, email, text your professor. Send an owl, if you have to. But get in touch as soon as you see your performance slipping. There may be ways to get caught up and your professor is your best bet. They support your success.
There's so much in this class. I don't know what to do first.
Remember the syllabus? Refer to that (and/or the class calendar) to figure out what you need to do today, right now. Then plan ahead for the other assignments that will be due throughout the term. And don't forget to add reading and study time to your calendar (put it on your phone!). Then when you have downtime (waiting in line? read over an assignment). Make every minute count.
Do I need a textbook?
Do you? Maybe the class requires a hard copy, physical textbook. Maybe everything is online (and free!). It could be a mixture of both. Guess what? Check your syllabus (usually on page one!) and contact your professor.
Something else is making me panic!
Take a deep breath. Then form a plan. Reach out to your advisor and ask for help. Contact your professor (notice a pattern, here?). Or stop by the Offices on campus and any of our friendly staff will steer you in the right direction. We're also available by phone (see the college website). Or just call our main number: 931-540-2722 .
We've got your back -- just let us know how we can help.