Getting Started
Are you ready to learn Online?
There are a lot of reasons why people put off getting an education, but with an online education, the doors of learning are open thanks to the flexibility that an online education provides. Not only does Online Learning offer a good amount of freedom to students seeking a way to manage life, work and school, Online Learning also provides the same quality education found in traditional on-site classes. Before taking that first step, you should consider if online courses are right for you.
Motivation
Unless under certain circumstances, Online Classes do not have regular meetings the way traditional courses do. Instead, you are required to login and follow the lesson plan established by your professor. This includes daily reading assignments, taking quizzes and tests, and any other activities assigned by your professor. You will need to stay motivated and routinely check on your classes on your own in order to stay on top of all assignments.
Planning
Online classes allow you to work on your time, around your own schedule. Some classes have deadlines for assignments and tests, so it is important to be well prepared and allow yourself adequate time to study and complete all required work.
Making a schedule and forcing yourself to stick to it is the best way to keep from having all your work pile up at once.
Technology
As big as Personal Motivation and Planning are to the online experience, so is having access to technology that will allow you to complete all your assignments. The basic essentials required are a computer (PC or Mac) and broadband internet. Some instructors may require additional equipment, such as a headset and microphone for online chats and presentations. Always check the syllabus for each of your courses for additional details.
See our Blackboard FAQ for details about compatible browsers and software.
Visit our Support page for links to install Blackboard's mobile apps.
What is an Online Campus?
At its core, an Online Campus refers to an institution that provides students the opportunity to complete entire degree programs online AND where most, if not all, the student services that have been available to traditional student are also available through electronic technology.
This means that an online campus has three things:
- Online Courses
- Online Programs
- Online Services
At South Texas College, we hope that you will take advantage of all three characteristics of our Online Campus, and let us know how we can help you accomplish your educational goals.