What should I do first in my online class?
Answer
1) Read the syllabus. This is usually located in the menu on the left-hand side of the screen. (If you're on a tablet or smartphone, you may need to tap a blue bar on the left-hand side of the screen to open the menu.) The syllabus will have information about the course; any textbooks or materials you might need; expectations from the instructor; and information on grades, assignments, and scheduling.
2) Look for the "Getting Started" information. Some instructors will have a folder in the menu on the left-hand side called "Getting Started." Others may have it in the "Course Content" folder. This is the place where you'll find an introduction to the course and everything you'll be learning about for the semester.
3) Introduce yourself. Usually, there will be a place in the Discussion Board for people to introduce themselves. This is the place to let folks know how they should address you in class, what you're studying, and why you wanted to take the course. Remember not to get too personal, though.
4) Explore. Take a look around the course on Brightspace and see what's available to you. Check out any links to other sites the instructor might provide. See what's in every link in the left-hand menu. Find out where things are located, so you can find them more easily later on. If you're having trouble figuring out how to navigate the Blackboard course, contact the Online Success Coach for some help in exploring.