Distance Learning tips

If you are new to online courses, they may be a bit tricky to navigate at first. Online classes are fast-paced, and unforgiving if you miss assignments, but if you stay on top of things, the course becomes much more manageable.

The first thing you need to know is that you MUST sign on to Blackboard within the first couple days of the term or you will be dropped from the course.

You can officially sign into the course today, so if you unsuccessfully tried before now, try again immediately.
“Students must log in the first day of classes and not just sometime in the first week,” said Cat Megic, MHCC’s Distance Learning program coordinator.

Here’s what else you need to know:
-Go to mhcc.edu and click on Distance Learning. You will be taken to mhcc.blackboard.com. Bookmark this page for future use, because you will use it often, if not daily.
-Log in using your student I.D. number and your birthday as your password (MM/DD/YY). If you have trouble, contact Distance Learning at 503-491-7170.
-Read the syllabus and all other materials provided. Most courses will have some kind of introductory assignment/discussion to complete during the first week, so make sure you do it in order to avoid being dropped from the class. You must actually participate in the introductory assignment to be considered present for the class.
-It’s important to realize that the first couple weeks are crucial for online courses, so be sure to stay organized and on top of all assignments. Meeting deadlines and due dates are vital to your success – missing only ONE major assignment can set you back for the entire term.
-Being self-motivated is a must for online courses. Online courses have due dates every week and move at a fast pace.
-You need access to a computer. Don’t rely solely on your cell phone. Having a smart phone won’t be sufficient enough to complete all coursework, although there are apps available which will help you to stay organized.
-If you are taking your first online or hybrid course, a helpful online course orientation is available (see dates below).
These are drop-in sessions, so be sure to check them out so you can be successful in your online classes this term.

 

Online orientation dates are:

-Mon., Sept. 23: 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. or 3:30-5 p.m. in AC 1303
-Tues., Sept. 24: 3:30 to5 p.m. in AC 1309