We've put together some resources and instructions on how to prepare for classes in a remote or online learning environment.

3 Steps to Get Started with your Online Class

  1. Check your SCTCC email. Get into a habit of checking it every day. In addition to important school-wide communication, your instructors will use your @my.sctcc.edu email to send you information about your classes and to answer any questions you have.
  2. Log into D2L Brightspace on the first day of class. Some classes may open earlier, so you can look around, but all classes officially open and start on the first day of the semester. 
  3. Locate your syllabus in D2L Brightspace and follow any instructions given by your instructor to start your learning.  Remember to ask questions if anything is confusing to you or if you need help. Have fun!

D2L Brightspace

Ask questions: Be sure to ask for clarification or discuss any course issues you may have, especially if you are new to online learning. Contact resources provided for assistance as well - we are here to support you.

Study environment: Find or create a space where you study best and create a routine so you have the time set aside and items you need to stay organized - internet connection, books, headphones, etc.

Create a schedule: Set aside enough time for each week’s work. Setting reminders on your phone or other devices, using post-it notes, or keeping a calendar can help you stay on task. Downloading the Pulse app can help you stay on task and will let you access D2L Brightspace from your phone.

Participate often: Participate with your peers and your instructor to stay connected in your course; share ideas and ask questions - offering feedback and working together are ways to maintain a supportive and active class environment.

Whenever possible, contact your instructor for individual course plans and details. You can use the SCTCC Directory search to find individual Instructors.

Online courses are structured to help students succeed. 

To help make that happen, the  content from the course is broken down into weekly modules. Each module presents new ideas and topics, and it also sets your learning objectives. The learning objectives are the goals you should reach, and your grades each week are based on how well you meet these goals. 

In most situations, your assignments will include a detailed list of requirements (sometimes called a grading rubric). A grading rubric explains how your instructor will determine your grade on the assignment. The rubric contains a list of categories relating to the learning objectives, and for each category, your instructor indicates how well you completed the work. 

Your instructor will determine whether your work is above expectations, meets expectations, or is below expectations for the learning goals, and he or she will assign you a grade accordingly.

Most modules give you a variety of resources and activities, so that you’re exposed to the new information and skills several different ways within the module. You're also encouraged to make use of the library databases, course textbooks, and other online sites in your exploration of the ideas and skills from each module.

It’s important to understand that your instructor wants you to succeed, and you should not worry about any instructor springing work on you at the last moment. Any work you’re required to do will be posted to the course well in advance of the deadline. 

It’s your responsibility to carefully read through all the course materials to make sure you’re aware of the deadlines. This will give you ample time to read the assignment, ask any questions, and complete your work ahead of the due date.

  • Most instructors will respond to your questions posted in the discussions forum’s “questions and answers” area within one school day (Monday through Friday). This can be faster than a traditional class where you have to wait for the next class session to have your question addressed. Individual instructors might have different response time policies, so be sure to check the syllabus for your class.  
  • Your instructor might answer questions on the weekends as well, but just like you, your instructor might choose to spend time away from work with family and friends. Also, you should not expect your instructor to respond to your questions during holidays.
  • When you're asking a question, it’s important to be specific and clear. Your instructor might find it helpful if you ask your question, and state "I think that the answer is" and then provide your best guess. This will help your instructor better understand your question, and it will save him or her time if you already have the correct answer (they can answer, "Yes! You're right"). 
  • Make sure to read the news page. Most instructors will give students reminders, clarifications on assignments, and hints about completing assignments in that area.
  • Most instructors will grade all of the assignments at once to ensure that they’re using the same criteria and are in the same state of mind in order to be fair to all students. For this reason, you’re not likely to receive a grade on an assignment until after the deadline has passed.
  • Realize that it will take longer for your instructor to grade papers, exams, and other major projects; you may not receive your grade and feedback for up to a week after the deadline. Smaller assignments might be graded within a day or two after their deadline.
  • If you fall behind in your course, do not feel that you need to drop the course. First make an effort to contact your instructor and see if you can come up with a realistic plan to get caught up in the course.

Technology

Remember: Email is SCTCC's official form of communication. Login using your StarID and password. Check it regularly to make sure you know how your classes and on-campus offerings will be affected.

Email information

Login to D2L Brightspace with your StarID and password.
Check Announcements in D2L Brightspace for Each of Your Courses

Announcements are found on the home page for each individual course, check often for course and college updates.

Participate in D2L Brightspace Class Discussion

Discussions allow you to participate with your peers and your instructor to stay connected in your course; share ideas, ask questions, offer feedback and work together.

Assignments and Grading in D2L Brightspace

Check on assignment due dates and make sure you understand how you are supposed to submit assignments.

Questions about D2L?

IT is offering online Zoom drop-ins to answer your questions about D2L and other Helpdesk questions. Join anytime between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 

  • Online via Zoom at https://minnstate.zoom.us/s/6440473821. Click "Join Meeting as an Attendee" if asked. You may need to download and install the Zoom software to activate it.
  • You can also call 1-929-205-6099 or 1-669-900-6833 and entering the meeting ID: 644 047 3821.
  • If you don't see or hear the host after joining the meeting, please try again in a couple minutes, as he is also managing the SCTCC computer lab and may be away.
  • If you need help outside office hours, email hpengeston@sctcc.edu, and he will respond as soon as possible.

For many online classes, virtual class meetings may be held through Zoom Video Conferencing. This link also contains links to tutorials and support information.

For the best experience, use a headset/microphone unless you have them built into your laptop.

You will need reliable computer access.

If you do not have access to a computer, SCTCC has laptops for checkout. Please call 320-308-6445 or email helpdesk@sctcc.edu to request a laptop. If you need to print, there is a printer and computer outside the 1-405 lab.

Some programs exist to assist individuals who need a computer. 

  • Minnesota Computers for Schools – Lifelong Learners Program: Do you needed a computer but had no way of getting one? This may be a program to help. There is an application process, and the student would need a portion filled out by a Learning Partner/Counselor/Social Worker/Job Coach, etc.
  • PCs for People- This option provides the ability to provide low cost internet and computers to individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements. The internet access is provided with mobile hot-spots, which would allow students to take it wherever it is needed.
  • Refurble – Provides low cost refurbished machines to students. 
  • MIDCO Lifeline - Lifeline is a federal program intended to put home phone and internet service within the reach of qualifying families – giving low-income households affordable home phone or internet access.
  • Minnesota Office of Broadband Development - Digital Inclusion
You will need reliable internet access.
  • Computers on campus will have access to the internet.
  • The SCTCC wi-fi password is cyclones

One Phone Number = Many People Ready to Help: Students can call 1-844-456-3876 for direct support during the days and times listed for each technology.

  • Need help with: StarID, D2L Brightspace, Kaltura MediaSpace, Zoom, or Office365? You can get phone support during the following days and times:
    • Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
    • Friday-Saturday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
    • Sunday: 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

You will receive immediate assistance or be guided through the process to submit a ticket for more complex issues