Tips for Navigating an Online Course

1. Read the syllabus
   • Read it again.
   • Look for the course expectations, grading policies, due dates, communication protocols, and a foundation of what’s required.
2. Review the course introduction
   • Instructors often include an overview of the course, including how to navigate through the semester
3. Practice navigating the course
   • Identify the structure of the modules, topics, and placement of materials
   • Scan to identify where to access course materials
   • Utilize Blackboard How To guide
   • Downloading Alternative Formats for Accessibility to learn in preferred format
4. Identify important deadlines & course patterns
   • Due dates are often found in the syllabus, course schedule, and/or by checking the Gradebook
   • Identify course patterns, i.e. assignments due every Sunday at 11:59 pm
   • Do NOT rely on Blackboard’s calendar, not everything appears here
5. Create a study schedule
   • Establish a routine and set aside time to ensure you are meeting all deadlines and course requirements
   • Put it in your calendar, planner, reminders (find a system that works for you)
   • Schedule time for it like you’re going to class (might not be the same every week, but where will you fit it in)
6. Engage with course materials
   • Take notes, complete quizzes, participating in discussion, and submitting assignments on time
   • Your engagement in the course material is the instructors only impression of you, make it a good one, and you’ll learn more too
7. Check for announcements
   • Regularly check Blackboard and your email for any updates, announcements, or course changes
8. Seek support if needed
   • Asks questions to your instructor or teaching assistant if you are unsure of something
   • Meet with instructor during office hours or by appointment, virtually or in-person                                                        
   • Don’t be afraid to advocate for your yourself
9. Get to Work
   • Online does not mean easier, expect to commit time
   • Follow instructions on what resources you can utilize (online doesn’t always mean open book or group work)

Additional Student Resources

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Academic Advising

To connect with an undergraduate or a graduate program advisor, click request info and choose your program of interest.

Disability Services

We believe in equal educational opportunities and a welcoming academic, physical and social environment for all students with disabilities. Student Disability Services (SDS) assists the University in fulfilling its commitment to educate and serve students with disabilities.

To request services and learn what documentation you will need to provide, visit the Student Disability Services website or call 662-915-7218 (voice) or 662-638-0379 (video phone). You can also email SDS at sds@olemiss.edu.  Once you have registered for services, the Disability Resource Center will ensure that the necessary technology and accommodations are made for you.

Career Center

The Career Center’s website contains information on upcoming events like career fairs and networking opportunities that may be of interest.

UM Library Access

Online learners needing to access electronic resources off campus should use the University of Mississippi Libraries Website. You will need to use your Ole Miss Web ID and password to access databases and other e-resources. More information is available at Library Online Learning Resources.

Testing Services

How to Schedule an Exam
Some instructors may require their online students to take proctored exams. If this is the case, students close to a UM campus are encouraged to schedule an appointment for a proctored exam at the Oxford or regional campuses.

Students will need to contact their instructor about alternate testing options available to them if they live outside the area or cannot take the exam during the times available. The use of Respondus LockDown Browser or ProctorU is at the discretion of the instructor as a means of alternate proctored testing. Students are responsible for any fees associated when using the ProctorU platform for testing.

Contact the Distance Education Testing Lab staff at detl@olemiss.edu for more information about testing.

Complaints Procedure

The University of Mississippi seeks to resolve concerns and complaints in a fair and prompt manner. Current or future UM students who have a complaint may submit their concerns to the appropriate department. Before pursuing external options, students should exhaust internal avenues of complaint resolution. 

Technical Requirements

The university’s IT services keep an updated list of computer recommendations and special technical considerations for online learners.