Getting Started

1. What are these online courses all about?
   Courses taken via the Web at Santa Rosa Junior College are nearly identical to the same courses taught in a more familiar classroom setting, but they are delivered over the Internet using a courseware management system (such as CATE or Moodle), online tests and exercises, email, and other Net-based tools and resources.
   
   
2. What do I need in order to take an online course?
   Not much, really. You just need reliable access to a computer and an Internet connection, including a reliable email account. For a fuller explanation of what you need and what you need to know, visit our Online Requirements page.
   
   
3. Can I use a computer on campus to take an online course?
   Yes. With a validated student ID you should be able to use SRJC computer labs or the library. You need to check hours of availability to make sure they're suitable for your schedule.
   
   
4. How do I know if I'm ready for an online course?
   If you're familiar with the Internet and you know how to send and receive email, then you're probably ready. Of course, you'll also need some self-discipline to stick with an online course. You might want to take our useful little Self-Assessment Quiz to help gauge how ready you are.
   
   
5. How do I get into an online course?
   It's necessary first to enroll at SRJC and register for the online section of a particular course. When the semester begins, find your class homepage for more information. Some online courses will then require you to check in online to receive your class username, password, and further information; see your class homepage or consult with your instructor to see if you need to do this.

Class Structure, Routine, and Communication

1. How are the classes actually conducted?
   The instructor will typically give reading assignments (on the Web, in textbooks, or both), provide further explanatory "lecture notes" online, call for discussion in the class forum, answer any questions raised during the discussion, and then administer an online exercise or quiz. Then the class moves on to the next topic.
   
   
2. How will I communicate with the instructor and other students?
   Your instructor will use the class website to explain which communication tools will be in use. These can include email, Message Boards, forums, chat, video, etc., depending on the class.
   
   
3. What about tests and exercises?
   Most online classes include exercises, tests, and even final exams on webpages. These are completed online and submitted to your instructor with the click of button. After being corrected and graded, you can usually see the results in a gradebook. Some online classes require you attend proctored exams on campus.
   
   
4. What are the class deadlines?
   The instructor sets the pace and deadlines for each class. Some are very flexible and self-paced, others are held to a more structured approach. Check your class webpages or consult with your instructor.
   
   
5. How will class participation be handled?
   This varies from class to class, but most instructors will require certain amounts of online participation, especially in the discussions on the class Mailing List. Again, check your class webpages or consult with your instructor.
   
   
6. Do the online courses ever meet in person?
   It depends on the class. Some never meet in person at all, some have an optional class meeting, and some require your presence at one or more classroom sessions.

Email

1. What's the best email account to use?
   You can use any reliable email account you choose.If you want, you can request an SRJC student account.
   
   
2. Suppose I change my email address?
   You need to edit the student configurations or profile for your class to reflect that change.
   
   
3. What happens if I have more than one email account?
   Some systems—but not all—will allow you to use more than one email account for the class.
   
   
4. Can I get an email virus from an online course?
   Classes conducted using our courseware management systems utilize web-based messaging which cannot transmit viruses. Nevertheless, every computer connected to the Internet should be protected by an anti-virus program, and users should always practice safe computing, especially when taking an online class.

Passwords

1. How do I get a password to participate in the class?
   Most online classes require you to use a username and password. Sometimes—but not always—your username and password will be the same as your SRJC student ID number and PIN code. To see out what you need to know about your username and password, find your class homepage and read instructions from your teacher.
   
   
2. Once I have my password, what do I do?
   Find your class homepage and read instructions from your teacher.
   
   
3. Suppose my password doesn't work?
   Help documents for students are available to resolve problems.
   
   

Help

1. Where can I find help documents for students?
   The "Information for Students" button at the top of this page will take you directly to a plethora of assistance for students links.
   
   
2. Where can I find help for using Moodle?
   Please see our Moodle help menu for students.
   
   
3. Where can I find help for using CATE?
   Please see our CATE handbook for students.
   
   
4. Suppose I still need help?
   Please contact your instructor.