Learning remotely will require a device—a reliable desktop, laptop or tablet is preferable. You’ll also need a way to connect to the Internet.

If you don’t have both a device and Internet access, check out these options:

• IT has several Chromebooks, Wifi Hotspots and iPads available for checkout for the remainder of the semester. Contact IT Helpdesk to arrange a pick up. (More Chromebooks are also on order so be sure to check back if none are available.)
• Check out low-cost computer resources at: Minnesota Computers for Schools, PCs for People, and Refurble.
• Use one of these Free/Low-Cost Internet Access options to connect your device to the Internet.
• A small computer lab meeting physical distancing and frequent cleaning requirements is now available on campus in Rooms 1506-1514. Students wishing to use this computer lab must enter campus through the West Entrance. They also must check-in and out at the security station inside that entrance using their student photo ID. Only employees and currently enrolled students allowed on campus. Check the Coronavirus Information page for current campus hours.
• If can’t arrange a device or you can’t get Internet access, let your instructor(s) know right away. Some technology needed for classes may work on a smart phone.
• If you have questions or need help arranging a device or accessing the Internet, contact the Contact the College’s IT Help Desk or, after hours, the Minnesota State Student Technology Help Desk for assistance.

• Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is important as an online learner. Your safety and wellbeing, and that of all our students, is the highest priority for the College. Remember that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of courage and maturity.
• If you or your family is facing challenges as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, many community resources are available to help you.
• If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or have any concerns about your mental health, please check out these Community Mental Health and Counseling Services or the Campus Counseling Services.
• Also check out these 7 Ways to Handle Stress as an Online Student.

• Set aside 15-30 minutes at the beginning and end of each day to check both your college email and D2L account. Not sure how to log into your college email? Visit the Student Technology Help webpage and select E-mail (Office 365).
• Talk to those you live with about what you need to study online. Find a quiet space and set aside time for yourself. Try to make your education a top priority even in the middle of all the other challenges this situation creates. Remember, College advisors, navigators and counseling services are available to help you balance your life during this difficult time.

• Try to continue giving yourself 3 to 4 hours of study time per course credit per week. When you would have normally been in a classroom, use that time for homework and learning about D2L, Zoom, and EAB Navigate.
• Map out your day and week by the hour. Use a planner or calendar. Create a routine and stick to it. Write down and organize due dates for all your classes and include time for reading and online class activities.

• Read about what you can do to be successful in remote learning in articles like What Makes a Successful Online Learner? and Adjusting to Online College​.
• Using new technology can feel overwhelming for anyone! Many faculty, staff and other students are also learning how to use new technology. Let them know how you’re feeling. You may be surprised by how much you have in common!
• Be patient. It takes time and practice to adapt to any new situation. Set reasonable goals for yourself, such as “This morning, I’m going to practice sharing my screen with my Advisor in Zoom so I’m ready for my class project next week.”
• Believe that you will find ways to show that you know the material and that you understand the concepts from your classes through the technology that may be new to you. Check out these tips for taking online exams. Ask for help or extensions if the technology or other circumstances are getting in the way of showing your potential.

• D2L Brightspace is the College’s online learning management system. You’ll use this for most or all of your online class requirements. Check your email and D2L account daily for information and updates from your instructors. You can run a system check on your device to see if it will run D2L properly. Check out this D2L quick start guide or explore details on how to use all of D2L’s features.
• All students have access to Zoom with their StarID and password. Your instructors may set up virtual meetings through Zoom with links in your D2L course page. Your advisor may meet with you for an appointment via Zoom. You can also set up your own Zoom meetings with fellow students and classmates for study groups. Learn about and practice with Zoom today on your computer, tablet or smartphone.
• All students have access to Kaltura Mediaspace with their StarID and password. Your instructors may ask you make short videos talking through assignments or to make a presentation. Learn about and practice with Kaltura today on your computer, tablet or smartphone.
• Need to submit a form to One Stop or Financial Aid? You can take a picture of your completed form on your smartphone or tablet and convert it to a PDF for the Secure Uploader:
• iPhone or iPad (iOS 10 or later) - Open the picture. Tap "Share" at the bottom. Scroll across and select "Print". Pinch to zoom in or zoom out so the whole form is visible. Tap "Share" to save it as a PDF.
• Android - Open the picture. Tap the menu in the upper right hand corner. Scroll down and select "Print". Choose "Save as PDF" at the top.