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Expectations When Taking an Online Course

Student may not know what to expect when taking an online course. These are some guidelines.

Student Expectations

  • Be involved and active in your courses.
  • Be highly motivated and disciplined.
  • Check the course homepage, calendar (if used), and assignments page(s).
  • Review the syllabus. Review the syllabus document provided by your instructor—not just the "Syllabus" section of Canvas (if applicable)
  • Check your UWGB email regularly.
  • Check the Canvas course discussion board(s) several times a week.
  • Post the required comments and responses to the discussion board for your course.
  • Keep up with your assignments and online quizzes/exams (as applicable) and manage your time well.
  • Participate actively in class discussions.
  • Practice Netiquette (http://www.albion.com/netiquette/corerules.html) in discussions, emails, and elsewhere: Be polite and respectful. Use good grammar and correct spelling. Don't write in all caps (it feels like you're shouting), and always sign your name.
  • Meet course deadlines. Some courses are self-paced but most are not.
  • Be honest and original. Plagiarism will not be tolerated in any online course. View UWGB's Plagiarism Policy and any information provided in course syllabi.

Do's and Don'ts for Success

  • DO set aside a specific time during the day for this course--the best time that fits your schedule. Use this time for preparation and for participation (reading, studying, posting messages, completing assignments, reviewing materials, taking quizzes, etc.)
  • DO check in and contribute to the class several times a week. By doing this, you will keep engaged, on track, and moving steadily towards your goal!
  • DO remember there are people at UWGB to help you to be successful in online learning.
  • DO NOT put off the work! You need to keep up so you can more effectively participate in group and class discussions.
  • DO NOT be afraid to ask questions! There are probably several others who are wondering the same thing.

Technology Needs

At minimum, students in online courses need: reliable internet access and a laptop or desktop computer (a tablet, iPad, or smartphone is not sufficient). Students should also be familiar with their devices and have to skills to:

  • Send emails and attachments
  • Copy and paste
  • Upload and download files
  • Play media (including audio files and web video)
  • Install and launch software on their computer
  • Use word processing software (such as MS Office Word, Office 365)
  • Use presentation software (such as MS Office PowerPoint, Office 365)
  • Navigate collaboration platforms (such as Zoom, Teams, OneDrive)
  • Operate a webcam and microphone
  • Access the settings for their web browser (including enabling plugins/add-ons)
  • Use Canvas or other platforms required for the course (check with your instructor)


KeywordsCanvas, Course, Student, Expectations, Access, Quizzes, Email, Policy, Schedule, Netiquette   Doc ID63281
OwnerScott B.GroupUW Green Bay
Created2016-05-09 12:42:35Updated2024-06-04 12:02:24
SitesUW Green Bay
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