Time and Preparation

We know from experience there is usually an adjustment period for most students as they learn the rhythm and patterns of online communication. Here are some tips for getting comfortable:

• Take time to review all the help files your instructor makes available.
   
• If you are new to the Internet, spend some time surfing and getting comfortable with it.
   
• Spend time just navigating your way through the class.
   
• Become familiar with the tools being used and what the buttons do.
   
• Get to know your browser.
   
• Manage your time. You'll find that your time management skills will be critical in online classes. Why? Because it is very easy to spend too little time on coursework and get behind. Set designated blocks of time for coursework. This will help you keep up with the assignments and with the interaction required in most online classes.
   
• Download or print out pages for reference and review when you're offline.
   
• Set priorities and pay close attention to what your instructor says about those priorities.
   
• Ask for help immediately if something isn't going right, whether it's a technical issue or something to do with the class environment. If you are unsure about something, communicate! It is very important that you be proactive in communicating with your instructor and classmates.
   
• Be persistent.
   
• Keep the contact information you get from your instructor handy and use it. If you have trouble with the technology, use the telephone. Learn the terminology of the Internet.
   
• Read what you are going to send before you click on the [Send] button. In online communication, it is important to say things carefully, since you cannot use body language as you would with face to face communication. Be thoughtful! We will not be able to see the grin on your face if you make a sarcastic comment, so it could be misinterpreted!
   
• Once you click the [Send] button, you can not get a message back.
   
• Typing in ALL CAPS is the equivalent of YELLING! Please do not yell.
   
• Share information, tips, and questions with your classmates and instructor. You may have the answer someone needs.
   
• Become part of the online community by participating. Join in and let your thoughts and ideas be heard.
   
• Enjoy your time in this new learning environment!
   
• And remember to ask right away for help if something isn't going right, whether it's a technical issue or something to do with the class environment. Don't waste time by trying to solve a technical problem or an issue with instructions; just call or send an email to your instructor.
   

Communication

Rules of the Road and Ethics

West Valley College online courses are based on the premise that students learn best in a community. The instructor plays an important role - but this is a different role than most instructors play in the classroom. You will notice a difference in the class dynamic. However, some things don't change: the practices of courtesy and respect that apply in the ordinary classroom also apply online, and require even more attention. Here are some guidelines:

• Participate. In the online environment, it's not enough to show up! We need to hear your voice, to feel your presence, and we especially need your comments added to the information, the shared learning, and the sense of community in each class.
   
• Be persistent. Remember we are all working in a fairly new environment. If you run into any difficulties, don't hesitate to telehone or email your instructor immediately. Most problems are easily solved, but we have to hear from you before we can help.
   
• Share tips, helpful suggestions, and questions. For many of us, taking online courses is a new experience. There are no dumb questions, and even if you think your solution is obvious, please share! Someone in the class will appreciate it.
   
• Think before you push the [Send] button. Did you say what you meant to say? How will the person on the receiving end interpret those words? While you can't anticipate all reactions, do read over what you've written before sending.
   
• Remember we can't see the smile on your face when you make a sarcastic comment, we can't see the concern on your face if you only say a few words, and we can't read your mind and fill in the gaps if you abbreviate your comments. So, help us "see" you by fully explaining your ideas. Use emoticons for fun once in awhile. An emoticon looks like this:  ;-)
   
• Remember there is a person on the other side of the [Send] button. Ask for feedback if you are unsure how your ideas and comments will be taken. If you disagree with what someone has said, practice all your best communication skills as you express that disagreement. "Flaming," or flying off the handle is unacceptable; it's the equivalent of having a tantrum, something most of us wouldn't do in a face-to-face classroom.
   
• Any derogatory or inappropriate comments regarding race, gender, age, religion or sexual orientation are unacceptable and will result in the same disciplinary action if they occurred in the physical classroom. If you have concerns about something that has been said, please let your instructor know.
   
• Plagiarism, cheating and other violations of ethical student behavior are serious actions in the learning community. You should expect to be treated accordingly.
   

Code of Conduct

West Valley College policy states that electronic communications conducted in the course of a class are "public" communications in the same way that classroom exchanges are public. Your instructor and other students are bound by the same principles of respect, professionalism, and concern, as you would find in any of the College's classrooms or offices. Please read Standards of Conduct. If you feel that these principles have been compromised in some way, please discuss this directly with your instructor.