Important Tips for Success as an Online Learner

Begin planning now for private, uninterrupted time in your schedule to complete the assignments – preferably in at least one-hour blocks and at least three times a week. It can be easy to fall behind!
Check your email account regularly for updated information. We will be using your HSU email account for communication.
Use e-mail for private messages to the instructor and other students. The discussion forum is for public messages.
If you have questions or confusion about an assignment, take action promptly! Check the Frequently Asked Questions FAQs forum to see if your concern has been addressed already. If not, post your question in the Ask Questions Here forum.
Read directions carefully.
For posts to online discussion forums, conventions of on-line etiquette ("netiquette") which include courtesy to all users, will be observed. Please see Communication and Etiquette Expectations for detail.
Check your readiness to complete an online course: Online Readiness Self-Assessment

Attitudes & Technical Skills Required

You will find that the following attitude will significantly contribute to your success in this online class:

A positive attitude towards technology
An open mind towards online education
Willingness to share your experiences with others
Strong writing skills needed for expressing yourself in the discussion area
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for when you "get stuck"
Resourcefulness - don't be afraid to click on links and explore and ask questions
Time management

Online learning requires only basic technical skills:

Competency with file management (for example, creating a folder on your desktop, moving files from one location to another, finding a saved file)
Internet navigation skills
Download plug-ins from the Internet
Update your Internet browser
Send and receive email
Create and save documents (Word, PowerPoint, Excel or HTML)
Toggle between two open software applications on your computer
Copy text from a word processing program and paste them into another program

Note: While keyboarding at 35 wpm or greater is not a requirement for online learning, it can be a real timesaver!

Minimum Hardware and Software Requirements

You will need access to a computer and the Internet. Most late model computers have adequate processing capabilities for online courses. For specific questions about the technical suitability of your home computer or laptop see the Computer and Browser Specifications below. If you do not have a computer at home or work but do spend time on campus, you can use any of the computer labs during open hours. A laptop with wireless capability will provide maximum flexibility for accessing the course when on campus.
If you plan to connect to the Internet from home, you will need Internet access. High-speed Internet access with a cable modem or DSL is recommended. For either connection method, you will need an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
You also will need word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word). If you need a word processor, contact the HSU Bookstore for reduced pricing on Microsoft Office (includes Microsoft Word word processing software) available to registered HSU students. An acceptable alternative is OpenOffice's Writer program available at no cost. Review documentation on using this MS Word substitute. Mac users can also use Apple Pages.
Free web browsing software can be downloaded from the Internet but is usually already installed on modern computers. Firefox or Chrome are recommended web browsers most compatible with Canvas for Mac and Windows users. Your browser must have the Java plug-in enabled.

Computer and Browser Specifications

Canvas and its hosting infrastructure are designed for maximum compatibility and minimal requirements.

Please read the Canvas Basic Computer Specifications and Canvas Supported Browsers

Some supported browsers may still produce a banner stating Your browser does not meet the minimum requirements for Canvas. If you have upgraded your browser but you are still seeing the warning banner, try logging out of Canvas and deleting your browser cookies. Learn how to clear your cache on a Mac or a PC.

Software Recommendations

Some online classes may use the following software:

Technical Assistance

It's crucial to seek help when you can't access Canvas or class materials. It's up to you to ask questions!

For technical assistance, contact Canvas 24/7 Support by clicking the Help button in the far left corner of Canvas.
For assistance with course materials contact your instructor (see the instructor contact block on your main course page).

Software Recommendations

Some online classes may use the following software:

Technical Assistance

It's crucial to seek help when you can't access Canvas or class materials. It's up to you to ask questions!

For technical assistance, contact HSU’s Help Desk at (707) 826-4357 or email help@humboldt.edu
For assistance with course materials contact your instructor (see the instructor contact block on your main course page).

Spam and Phishing Scams

Learn how to stay safe and protect yourself from hackers who may try to access your personal information: Security: Spam and Phishing Scams (Links to an external site.).
Surf via secured Wi-Fi (Links to an external site.)to protect your data.
Use anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-malware software.
Use pins and passwords to secure your computer and devices- don't share your password with anyone-crest strong passwords that include a combination of letters and numbers that no once can guess (like your birthdate).

College of eLearning & Extended Education, 2017