THINGS TO DO NOW:

• Talk to your Academic Counselor about whether you are ready to take a Distance Education college course.  Online courses require time management skills and high self-motivation.
• Be ready to budget your time and work independently.  DE courses have no scheduled class time.  You are responsible for scheduling study time and getting your work submitted on time.   If you take a 7½ week DE course, you may need to spend between 15 – 20 hours per week doing your course work.
• Learn the technology.  Most Distance Education courses use the Angel Learning System to deliver course materials.  Take the MCC ANGEL Orientation Course.  Learn how to locate, logon and use ANGEL before the first day of class.

• Get connected.  Make sure you have the Internet capabilities and the software necessary to take the course.  Check with the Distance Education office if you are unsure about computer requirements.  Get your MCC email address and learn how to access your MCC email. 

   

THINGS TO DO ONCE YOUR COURSE STARTS:

• Get started right away.  Login to your course the day it starts.  Contact the HELP DESK immediately if you cannot access your course.
• Read your course syllabus.  Mark assignment due dates on your calendar.  Pay attention to your course start and end dates.  Make sure you understand the class requirements.  Purchase your textbook and other required course materials.
• Budget your time.  DE courses are flexible to meet your schedule, but you must be able to budget your time and be prepared to work independently.
• Stay in touch with your course and instructor.  Check your course daily.  Check for current announcements posted by your instructor or the Distance Education office.  Check your MCC email daily.  Ask questions.  Ask for help if you are having difficulty with an assignment.
• Participate in your course discussions.  Most DE courses require weekly participation.  You can’t wait until the last half of the course and expect to succeed.
• Be realistic about working in a Distance Education course and prepare for technological glitches.  Don’t panic.  Call for Assistance.  Have a back-up plan ready if your computer isn’t working.