Online Learning at 91抖阴
How do I know if I'm ready to take an online course?
Taking an online course requires reliable internet, devices, and digital literacy skills to navigate online platforms, submit work, and participate in discussions.
Taking an online course also requires good time management skills to keep up with assignments and communication delivered online.
Do I have the time?
In an online course, 8-10 hours per week is needed for each 3-credit hour course taken in a 16-week semester to keep up with reading, homework, discussions, and quizzes. If the term is less than 16 weeks, more time is needed.
Do I have access to the technology?
- You will need a reliable internet connection and a good primary 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.
- Wi-Fi and computers are available on the main 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 .
- It's most likely you will need a word processing program. As a registered 91抖阴 student, you have access to MS Word and other Microsoft 365 Apps that can be accessed online or downloaded to your own devices.
Do I have the technical skills?
If you are unsure, you will learn by taking the mandatory CSP-0002 Orientation to Distance Learning. You must register for CSP-0002 when you take your first online course at 91抖阴. About 2-4 weeks before your online course begins, you will receive an email message to your 91抖阴 Eagle Mail with the subject line "Welcome to CSP-0002-Orientation to Distance Learning!" This email message will contain instructions on how to get started with the orientation. This is a non-credit course that must be completed before your credit online course begins or within the first two weeks of your credit online course.
CSP-0002 Orientation to Distance Learning
CSP-0002 Orientation to Distance Learning is a self-paced orientation that takes 1-2 hours to complete. Again, this is a mandatory non-credit course that must be completed before your credit online course begins or within the first two weeks of your credit online course. After completing the activities and knowledge checks you will have the 15 points required to earn your Certificate of Completion. Some online instructors may ask for the certificate as proof of completion.
What will I learn in CSP-0002?
Strategies for being a successful online learner!
- Pertinent information for taking online courses at 91抖阴
- Technologies used in online courses at 91抖阴
- 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, visit , email SLT@ivcc.edu, or call 815-224-0118.
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.