2.3 | Getting Started Module Content

Introduction

If you've ever interacted with an online course, you know that the Getting Started module can be a fair amount of information! The following sections outline the materials that should be included in a comprehensive Getting Started module, all of which are pre-loaded in the Cañada Template - Getting Started Module which can be accessed and imported from the Canvas Commons Links to an external site.

Student Technical Support

Canvas Guides  - Whether your students are experienced with Canvas or are brand new to the LMS, you will need to include access to the SMCCD Canvas Student Guide, access to Canvas Video Tutorials, and access to the Canvas Student Guides. This will help students find answers to questions they may have, and will also alleviate you from needing to be a Canvas expert! 

Campus Technical Support - Let's face it. Password, login, and technical glitches occur. Make sure your students know the correct support resources to assist with any challenges they may experience. Having quick access to this information will help them resolve the issue so they do not fall behind in your class. 

Zoom & Other Required Software - Teaching and learning online is dependent on technology. The sections in this resource provide students with basic guidelines to ensure they have the right equipment to support online learning. Internet requirements, Zoom Support and General Technology Tutorials are all highlighted. 


About This Course

Syllabus & Instructor Contact - This is an area for you to introduce yourself to students using text or video, and to provide important information about getting in contact with you. This page should include contact information, your preferred method of contact, office hours, and typical response times. This page is another opportunity for you to provide your course syllabus file, or link to the Syllabus Index. 

How to Navigate This Course - This is an opportunity to provide your students with an overview of the course. Mostly likely, this will be done by creating a video walk-through where the instructor describes the organization of the course, expectations for participation, as well as when learning activities and assignments will occur. Further, this page is where you'll want to include information about the course late policy and the grading scheme, as appropriate. 

Online Etiquette - Often referred to as "netiquette," this space provides guidelines for students regarding appropriate online interactions. 


Student Support Resources

Preparing for Success - If you are instructing an entirely online course, you will want to ensure your students are prepared for the demands of an online modality. The Online Education Initiative (OEI) has produced a series of interactive tutorials and videos designed to support online learners. Additionally, you may want to include tips for committing to a schedule, and committing to the online class community, as appropriate. 

Student Services - Whether your students are in a face-to-face classroom or are engaging in an online environment, you will need to provide access to the campus student services such as the library, learning center, counseling services, health services, Disability Student Support, and any other student services that will promote student success. 

Course Q&A Forum - The Q&A Forum is a non-graded discussion forum where students can ask or answer general questions they may have about the course. Since it is typically placed within the Getting Started module, topics or questions in this forum can pertain to any or all class information. 

 

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