Register for Online Classes:

Have your registered for an online course at LLCC yet? If you have not, you will want to follow the steps on the LLCC Student Services Getting Started page.

To learn more about courses at LLCC, visit:

LLCC Online

Course Schedule (for all courses online and in-person)

Before Your Online Course Begins

Hand holding stack of books Buy any required texts and other required materials

If your online course requires textbooks or other materials, buy them early so you will not fall behind in your assignments. You do not want anything to slow down your potential for success and it can often take a little longer to receive course materials for an online class, especially if they are being shipped to you. Always check the LLCC Bookstore directly for the textbooks, materials, and possible software that are required for your online course and order as early as possible. Waiting until Week one to buy your textbooks is too late.

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The First Day Your Online Course is Available

Image of Student preparing for online course Log Into Your Online Course

Log into your course the first day of the semester and read the Instructor's welcome announcement or watch the welcome/introduction video. This announcement or video will let you know a little about your instructor, how the course is organized, what your instructor expects of you and what you can expect from your instructor. Oftentimes, the instructor will point out important details found in the syllabus and show you how to navigate around the course.

Review Your Course Syllabus

The course syllabus is your learning contract, unique and specific to each course you take, and it should include information to know to help you succeed in your course. Look for instructor contact information, required elements of your course (materials, exams, events, participation), due dates, project details, grading guidelines and rubrics, as well as a course schedule.

Update Your Computer

Check the course syllabus to see what software or hardware you will need to properly participate in your online course. Working early in the course ensures your computer can run the necessary programs and will save you technical delays when you are under a deadline.

Get to Know the “Flow” of Your Course

Each online course has its own structure. Spend a few minutes exploring the course site before jumping into the lessons. Make sure you understand how you can access all the necessary online class components (lessons, lectures, discussion boards, multimedia presentations, assignment submission forms, etc.) Take note of any optional components that can be used to help you with your coursework.

Learn the Communication Expectations

How does your instructor want you to contact them? Do they have email subject line requirements? Do they prefer email or course messaging? Do they allow you to text them, if so, what are the guidelines? What are the course Netiquette rules? Take time to identify these expectations and make sure you follow them when communicating with your instructor and participating in your online course. Additionally, remember online communication in an educational setting is different than the chat/text style you may use with friends and family. When communicating with your instructor and classmates make sure to use professional language and always address others in a positive manner. Review the netiquette guidelines in this orientation.

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The First Week of Your Online Course

Online Student first week of class

Record Tests and Assignments on Your Calendar

As soon as you receive a syllabus, pay close attention to the course schedule. The first week of your course record all the assignments, tests, essays, and projects on your personal calendar. Setting reminders in a digital calendar can be helpful for keeping you on task.

Establish a Regular Study Time

Figure out how much study time you will need each week and set a regular schedule. Let your friends and family members know that you will be unavailable during that time. If you establish this routine early on, you will be more likely to stick to it. Review Online Student Success Strategies for more study tips.

Introduce Yourself

In many online courses instructors will ask you to participate in an online ice breaker as part of your self-introduction. This introduction activity will help your instructor get to know you. Make sure to participate and read your classmates introductions. Getting to know others in your course and letting them get to know you will create a sense of community within the online course. Later in the course, you may find that you are working in smaller groups and if so, you will already know a little about your classmates.

Get a Head Start on the Assigned Work

Jumpstart your online course by beginning upcoming assignments during your first week as a student. When the assignment deadlines draw near, you will feel confident knowing much of the work is already done.

If You Are Feeling Overwhelmed

If your feeling overwhelmed or find yourself struggling, contact your instructor early. You may also want to contact the Center for Academic Success or your Student Success Advisor for support. Make sure you do not wait until you have already missed a due date to ask for help.

Review Your Online Academic Support Resources for information on academic support services for online students.

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