Online Learning at IVCC
How do I know if I'm ready to take an online course?
Taking online courses requires reliable internet, devices, and digital literacy skills needed to navigate online platforms, submit work, and participate in discussions. Taking online courses also requires time management skills needed to keep up with assignments and communication delivered online.
Do you have the time?
8-10 hours per week for each 3-credit hour course taken in a 16-week semester is needed to keep up with reading, homework, discussions, and quizzes in an online course. If the term is less than 16 weeks, more time is needed.
Do you have access to the technology?
- You will need a reliable internet connection and a device with a microphone and camera. 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. Visit Devices, Browsers, Software, & Apps if you have questions about the technology needed.
- IVCCguest Wi-Fi and computers are available for on campus in Oglesby and at the Ottawa center. Laptops are available to check out from the library in the Academic Support Center on a short and long-term basis. See Technology Loans.
- It's likely you will need a word processing program. As a registered IVCC student, you have access to MSWord and other Microsoft 365 apps that can be accessed online or downloaded to your own devices.
How do I know if I have the technical skills to be an online learner?
If you are not sure, you will learn by taking the CSP-0002 Online Orientation! You should have registered for CSP-0002 when you registered for your first online course. Once you enrolled you will receive an email with the subject line "Welcome to CSP-0002-Orientation to Distance Learning!" with instructions on how to get started. This is a non-credit course that should be completed before your online course begins or within the first two weeks of your online course.
How long will it take?
The Online Orientation is a self-paced course that should take 1-2 hours to complete. After completing the activities and knowledge checks you will earn 15 points needed to earn your Certificate of Completion to show your online instructor.
What will you learn?
Strategies for being a successful online learner!
- 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 and taking online quizzes.
How do I get help if I need it?
If you need help completing your online orientation course, contact the instructor or visit contact Student Learning Technology at SLT@ivcc.edu, x 118.
You also have access to free academic support resources and support staff who can help you succeed as an online learner. The Academic Support Center is your space to study, get free tutoring and research help, and receive learning technology assistance.