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
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 to us:
- Student Help Desk - shd@ivcc.edu 815-224-0318, www.ivcc.edu/shd
- Counseling - counseling@ivcc.edu 815-224-0360, www.ivcc.edu/counseling
- Center for Accessibility and Neurodiversity - tina_hardy@ivcc.edu 815-224-0284, www.ivcc.edu/can