Getting Started

SJSU has many tools, strategies and programs available to help support your success. Learn about various types of online learning environments. Discover tools and resources available to you. Check your readiness to take courses online and identify areas for training and support.

Check your Readiness for Online Learning

• Online Learning Readiness Questionnaire

  • Online courses offer a flexible and unique method of learning. But they require students to manage their own learning in a different way than face-to-face classes.You can assess your readiness for online learning and identify areas for additional training such as time management, or communication skills, by completing our questionnaire.

    Complete the Online Learning Readiness Questionnaire. 

Online Learning Environments

How can you tell which type of online class you are taking?

• Synchronous classes will have a regular meeting time listed.
• Asynchronous classes will have TBA listed under Days & Times.

Be sure to check the syllabus for additional course-specific information.

• Synchronous Learning

  • A learning methodology where students are engaging in learning at the same time that it is taught. For instance, face-to-face video conferencing where students can directly communicate with their teacher.

• Asynchronous Learning

  • An online learning environment where students' learning does not occur at the same time that it is delivered. This approach combines self-study with asynchronous interactions to promote learning.

    
    Online learning resources that can be used to support asynchronous learning include Canvas, online discussion boards, wikis and blogs.

• Hybrid Learning

  • Hybrid instruction takes place both in person and online. This mode is scheduled even if one campus meeting is required.

    For example, a hybrid course might meet twice a week with one day on campus and the other day online. 

Online Learning Tips & Tools

• Tips for Online Students 

  • Online learning is a great way to expand your knowledge in a flexible and time-efficient way. We have collected few of the useful resources to increase your productivity.

    Please refer to the tips for more Information.

• Tips on Using Zoom

  • Please refer to the Zoom Tips For Students [pdf] for tips on how to use Zoom efficiently for online classes. Learn how to attend online classes using Zoom from the Zoom tutorial.

• Communication and Netiquette Expectations

  • With freedom to voice your opinion and personal thoughts on the web comes responsibility. Keep the following guidelines in mind:

    1. Identify yourself by your real name.
    2. Write in the first person (this is your opinion).
    3. Use humor, joking, or sarcasm with caution.
    4. What you write is public—respect your audience and be mindful of proper netiquette.
    5. Be professional, clear and respectful.
    6. Read and formulate communications carefully.
    7. Be tolerant and cooperative.
    8. Remember, the course is online.
    9. Use proper headings and subject lines.
    10. Provide enough detail in your messages. 

    This content is offered under a CC Attribution license. 

• Minimum Technology Needs

  • Most courses will require students to have a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer with a webcam. NOTE: If you have a Chromebook you will not be able to use the Respondus proctoring software due to an incompatibility issue.

    Check the syllabus for each of your classes to see what technology is required.

    See the How-To page for information on proctoring and other software available for download.

    See the Technology page for information on the free SJSU Equipment Loaning program.

• LinkedIn Learning

  • SJSU has a full subscription to LinkedIn Learning. This gives all students, staff, and faculty access to self-paced learning content whenever and wherever you want it. Whether you are looking to refresh skills you’ve forgotten, need some advice about managing life as a college student, or want to master new software, LinkedIn Learning has what you need. Plus, when you complete a course on LinkedIn Learning, you have the option of adding that certificate to your LinkedIn profile where future employers
    can see your initiative and expertise!

    Access LinkedIn Learning from one.sjsu.edu. You can also begin your exploration of of LinkedIn Learning by looking at these courses:

    1. Managing Life as a College Student
    2. Skills for Classes. 

    Resources

    View the How to Use LinkedIn Learning short course.

    How to access your SJSU LinkedIn Learning account.