Getting Started Guide

Welcome

Welcome to the Getting Started Guide for new distance learners! Below are four basic steps of how to get started in an online class. If you want more information on what to expect and how to be successful, please use the navigation above to go through the remainder of the Getting Started Guide.

The Basics of Getting Started

1. Online Courses are found in Blackboard, the University's online course management system.
2. Go to the TWU Blackboard log-in page, and log-in using your TWU Portal username and password.
3. Once you are logged-in you will see the courses you are enrolled in listed in the My Courses module on the Blackboard home page and on the Courses tab.
4. To enter the course, click on the course link. Professors have to make the course available in order for you to enter it. They should do this no later than the first day of class; however, some will make the course available a day or two before classes start. Don't panic if you can't get into your course when you first see it listed, and certainly contact the professor if he or she hasn't made the course available by the first day of classes.

Who is this guide for?

The Getting Started Guide is for current TWU students who are about to take their first online course.

Why should you go through it?

The online environment is different than the face-to-face environment. Learning in cyberspace takes a different mindset and a certain set of skills to be successful. Learning online is more student centered and much more interactive. Your participation in the class is crucial. By participation we mean checking in, reading the materials, giving rich feedback and interacting with your classmates and instructor. If you simply sit back and observe, you will not do well academically, and you likely will not learn as much or enjoy the experience to its fullest degree. So, in order to get started on the right track, we recommend you do through this guide to understand what learning online is like and how you can be successful!

What information is in it?

This guide includes information about Blackboard, Online Library Services, Online Student Services and tips for how you can be successful.

At the bottom of the fist six sections, you'll see this icon. It indicates a quiz is available to help you review the information in that section. Don't worry, these aren't for a grade; so if you don't pass the first time, try again!

What will you need to view the content?

• Adobe Reader
• Window's Media Player
• Adobe Flash Player

Who's behind you?

You have a whole team of faculty and staff at Texas Woman's University who are here to make sure your online experience is smooth and successful! You'll be meeting them throughout the guide.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

 If you have a question about any of the content, please contact the appropriate support staff. If you need to report a problem with the Getting Started Guide you can contact Allison Mabry.

Test Your Knowledge
Distance Education Basics Quiz