Taking courses online can be flexible for those with complex schedules, however there are certain considerations students should keep in mind when participating in online learning.
To access your online courses, you will need:
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Online courses are accessed through Brightspace, the learning management system. Students may also be required to utilize the Office365 Microsoft suite of tools, and virtual resources like Zoom and TEAMS. Below you will find some resources helping you navigate these technology solutions.
The Pulse App keeps you connected to your courses via your mobile device.
Google Workspace Training
(The full suite of Google Workspace Training Lessons)
KVCC offers the following course modality types that include online learning:
Asynchronous Online: These courses do not require students to log in and be online during any set day or time, however there will be weekly assignments and weekly deadlines a student must follow.
Synchronous Online: These online courses require students to connect virtually via Zoom or TEAMS on a set day & time to participate in the class.
Hybrid Live & Online: This course has a regular on-campus face-to-face course, but also requires students to complete course content asynchronously online through Brightspace.
Hybrid Asynchronous & Synchronous Online: This course meets primarily online asynchronously, but will also require a certain number of synchronous virtual meetings. Those required meetings will be posted in the schedule and links to the virtual meetings will be provided by the faculty.
Online classes require the same amount of time and commitment as live in-person classes, sometimes even more. It is important to set a schedule, particularly with asynchronous classes, and devote enough time to each course. Flexibility in course modality still requires discipline.
Setting a Schedule - make sure you set aside time for each course and the various commitments.
Be Prepared - you never know what obstacle might get in your way, so it's important to be prepared.
Netiquette = Internet Etiquette. These are guidelines on professionalism with tips to ensure a positive experience and interaction over the video conferencing platforms.
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Test your internet and computer connectivity in advance so to be sure you can join your zoom session. |
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Make sure to have your camera connected and working. If you are unable to use your camera, upload a professional photo of yourself to your profile. |
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Keep your microphone muted when you are not speaking. Background noise is easy to miss as the person in the room, but not your classmates and colleagues on the other end of the zoom call. |
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When speaking, be sure you are talking in the direction of your microphone. Turning your head or facing away will cause your voice to fade. |
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Avoid joining a zoom session while driving or otherwise distracted. Find a quiet place to join your session where you will not be distracted and can fully engage. |
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Be mindful of your background. Excessive activity in your camera’s field of vision can be distracting to your fellow virtual-mates. Additionally, some video conferencing meetings are recorded, so be careful what you show on screen. You can use a virtual background if you prefer. |
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Make sure to use your full name so your instructor can see it for attendance. |
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Use the zoom features and raise your hand or post comments instead of interrupting others as they are speaking. |
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Make sure to have your laptop charged or be close to an outlet so you don’t lose connection. |
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It is easy to get distracted and begin to multitask – try to avoid this and stay engaged the best you can! |
[BoLTS] Brightspace Learner Tech Support
All KVCC Students have access to resources curated by the BoLTS Team (Brightspace Learner Technical Support). Use the link below to access these resources.
For help with Brightspace, contact KVCC’s BoLTS Team:
Call BoLTS Live at (207) 453-5827
Visit BoLTS in-person in the Lunder Student Success Center Room 117 on the Fairfield Campus.
BoLTS is generally available 8AM to 4PM Monday through Saturday, though response times may vary based on team member availability. If you are unable to reach BoLTS and need help right away, please contact IT Support.
