Getting Started with Online Learning

Online learning - eCourses are designed to work around your schedule!

• Live Online – Live Online classes have sessions that meet online on specific days and times. Students interact with the instructor and classmates in a virtual environment. Access to a computer or mobile device with Internet connection is required.
• Online Classes – Online classes are conducted over the Internet with no scheduled class time. Homework, quizzes and participation take place on Canvas, although some classes may require you to come to campus for a proctored examination.
• Hybrid Classes – Hybrid classes include both online and on-campus classroom time. Hybrid classes offer face-to-face time with your instructor and more accountability than an online-only class.

Go to Find a Class to search for eCourses. Once you're there, select the semester and college you want to attend, and under “More Search Options” select the delivery options 'Internet' and/or 'Hybrid' to view available online and hybrid classes. Register for an eCourse online in your account, by calling 623-845-3333 or in-person at the GCC Enrollment Center.

Take the GCC eCourses Student Orientation in Canvas to learn about taking eCourses. It's a free online class that will teach you all about online and hybrid learning and helps you navigate eCourses.

To succeed in an eCourse consider the following:

• eCourses require time management skills. You’ll need to log in 3 or more times per week and spend at least 6 hours each week on a 3 credit eCourse.
• Most eCourses are not self-paced; they have definite start and stop dates, with assignments due on a regular basis.
• You will be expected to read, listen to lectures and podcasts, visit websites, and interact online by posting comments on discussion boards, blogs and wikis.
• Successful eCourse students are motivated, proactive learners who are also disciplined and patient. To determine if an eCourse is a good choice for you, please complete the Readiness Survey

What is netiquette?

Netiquette refers to etiquette on the Internet. Online courses require a lot of written communication - both to fellow students and instructors. So it is important to communicate clearly and professionally. The golden rule of netiquette in an online class or environment is: “Don’t do or say something online that you would not do or say in person.“
Your eCourse instructor will provide more netiquette tips and information in your eCourse content.

Do a tech check

Where technology is involved you’ll need to be flexible and willing to do some troubleshooting. Aside from the personal learning skills that will lead to your success, some courses may test your technical skills.

Recommended basic technical skills

• Able to type approximately 30 words per minute.
• Understand basic file management, including the ability to create, save, move, and copy word processing documents.
• Knowledge of basic Internet navigation using a standard Web browser.

Equipment requirements

To be successful in your eCourse, you'll need regular access to a computer connected to the Internet (high-speed access recommended), speakers or headphones, a printer to print course documents and notes (optional, but recommended) and; microphone or webcam (also optional).

Software requirements

• Internet browser (Chrome, Edge, FireFox, & Safari, etc);
• Adobe Reader;
• A word processing application (Word, Word Perfect, Open Office) capable of saving a file;
• GoogleDocs - used for sharing of online documents, spreadsheets and presentations;
• Other course-specific software (as required by your instructor).

1. Check your student email for instructions from your instructor.
2. Login to Canvas using your MEID. Most eCourses are in Canvas. If yours is not, contact your instructor. To find their contact information, type their name in the search bar of this website.
3. Read the Notes section of your course in the online schedule.