Orientation to Distance Learning (CSP-0002)

You are enrolled in an online class.  Now what? 

Complete the online orientation course, CSP-0002.  If this is your first online course, you are required to complete CSP-0002 - Orientation to Distance Learning. CSP-0002 is a fully online orientation.

How Online Classes Work

• Online learning requires time management, dedicated study time, and access to a computer and the internet.  Try to schedule 6-9 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).
• 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, writing center, library, help desk). Use them!

Get Connected

• Learn how to use your IVCC accounts
• Check your IVCC email
• Log in to Brightspace
• Contact the Student Help Desk for assistance

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 the www.ivcc.edu/learningresources page for a list of known providers and plans
• 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

• It's likely you will need a word processing program.  All IVCC students can install Microsoft 365 apps on personal computers and mobile devices. Read more at https://www.ivcc.edu/studenthelpdesk/MSOfficeApps.php.
• If you use Google Docs as your word processor and need to download a file as a .docx, check out these instructions: https://support.google.com/docs/answer/49114?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en
• If you use Pages as your primary word processing tool and need to download a file as a .doc or .docx, check out these instructions: https://support.apple.com/guide/pages/export-to-word-pdf-or-another-file-format-tance1161f26/mac
• If you need to submit a file as an assignment in Brightspace, use these instructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HY0ogyh-IhQ

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