Orientation to Distance Learning (CSP-0002)

You are enrolled in an online class. Now what? 

If this is your first online course at IVCC, you are required to complete CSP-0002-Orientation to Distance Learning either before your online course begins or within the first two weeks of your online course. You should have registered for CSP-0002 when you registered for your first online course.

Where do I access CSP-0002-Orientation to Distance Learning?

CSP-0002 is accessible in Brightspace which is IVCC's Learning Management System.

What will I learn from CSP-0002-Orientation to Distance Learning?

CSP-0002 introduces students to

  • Pertinent information for taking online courses at IVCC
  • Technologies used in online courses at IVCC
  • Navigation skills within Brightspace
  • Practice submitting different types of assignments/quizzes

How do online courses work?

  • Online learning requires time management, dedicated study time, and access to a computer and the internet.  Try to schedule 8-10 hours per week for each class you're taking (if a 3-credit hour course in a 16-week semester; more time if less than 16-weeks). This time is used for reading course materials, doing class assignments/writing papers, studying, taking quizzes, etc.
  • Online classes are generally not self-paced; the instructor will give you due dates for assignments in the syllabus, an email, and/or Brightspace.
  • You have access to online academic support resources (Tutoring and Writing Center, Jacobs Library, Student Help Desk). Use them!

Get Connected

Use Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge for your browser.  If you cannot get something to open, try a different browser.  Need more help?  Contact the Student Help Desk, A201, 815-224-0318, shd@ivcc.edu.

Be Successful

  • Log in regularly and participate
  • Read and re-read assignment instructions
  • Schedule your time during the week to study and do assignments
  • Email your instructor to ask questions
  • Allow yourself time to work on assignments
  • Submit assignments by the deadlines
  • Keep track of your grades

Hardware and Software Needs

  • Internet Service and Hotspots - visit https://libguides.ivcc.edu/techloans
  • You may be able to do some of your online work on a smart phone, but your best experience will be on a laptop or desktop computer.
  • Brightspace Pulse app is available in your app store.  Read announcements and check your grades using the app but we recommend using Brightspace with a browser on a laptop for online quizzes or tests.
  • Visit Devices, Browsers, Software, & Apps if you have questions about the technology needed.

Word Processing

Taking Tests Online in Brightspace

You may need to take a quiz or test in Brightspace.  Consider these tips and access the resources below if you're required to use Respondus LockDown Browser or Respondus Monitor.

  • Make sure your internet connection is stable.
  • Close all other applications and browsers, including music applications.
  • Do not use the browser's Back button or Refresh buttons during a test.
  • Use the Save button next to each question.  When tests display one question at a time, the response is automatically saved when you move to the next question. 
  • Some tests are timed.  A countdown timer will alert you of your time remaining.  The timer will not stop until the test is submitted.
  • At the end of the test, click the Submit button only once and wait for a confirmation that the test is submitted.

Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor

You may be expected to use Respondus LockDown Browser or Respondus Monitor for online testing.  To learn more about these tools, visit Online Testing.
 
For help with Respondus LockDown Browser, Respondus Monitor, or student technology, contact the Student Help Desk, 815-224-0318, shd@ivcc.edu 

When you need help, reach out