Academic Continuity for Online Students

Contact your instructors via your VCCS email or the Canvas Inbox.

• If the college closes or a course has to move online, log in to Canvas to see announcements, messages, and alternate assignments.
• If you do not have all of the required technology and access to complete online coursework, be proactive in communicating this to your instructor and in finding solutions.
• Register for text and email alerts from GCC.

If a face-to-face class is changed to be offered in an online format, consider the following to be prepared.

• Ensure that you have access to a computer or a mobile device that includes reliable access to the Internet.
• Use the most recent update of the Chrome or Firefox web browser to access Canvas.
• Ensure that you have speakers and a microphone, or a headset with mic.
• Ensure that you have a webcam, either built into your computer/mobile device, or USB webcam.
• Communicate with your instructors about any potential testing restrictions, including using Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor.

• Visit Canvas Student Guide - Table of Contents for Canvas resources and tutorials.
• Download the Canvas Mobile App for iOS or Android.
• Set your notification preferences in Canvas to ensure you receive essential course updates.
• Communicate with your instructor and visit Germanna's Accessibility Resources if you need accommodations in terms of due dates, quiz times, or accessibility concerns.
• Contact Canvas Support 24/7 using the Canvas Help Menu.

• Learn how to submit an online assignment through Canvas.
• Tip: Always save your documents before turning them in online. Consider downloading your files to an offline location/your computer as a precaution.
• File Types: You may be asked to submit PDF or MS Office files. Office 365 and Google Docs allow you to save your files as PDF files.
• Software: As a GCC student, you have access to Google Drive, Google Apps for Education, and free instructional software at VCCS Student Resources.

• Daily Check-in: Expect to check your email and Canvas courses daily, and be prepared to attend live video sessions online via the Zoom web conferencing tool that may be scheduled during your regularly scheduled campus class time.
• Download the Zoom mobile app.
• Notifications: Reading announcements and assignment notifications are crucial to having a successful online learning experience.
• Time: Expect to spend as much time with your courses online as you would on-campus.
• Office Hours: Take advantage of any online office hours.
• Communicate: Take the time to promptly communicate via Canvas or email with your instructors. Ask for feedback or clarification, and be open to phone conversations and video conferencing.
• Course Support: Ask for assistance early if you have questions or are unable to access course content. Canvas courses, modules, and assignments need to be published in order for you to see them. If you cannot see course content, reach out to your instructor to make sure it has been published.