At Columbus State you can choose to attend classes online, in person, or a combination of each. We have the experience, dedication, and resources to help you whether you're in the front row of a classroom or the comfort of your own home.
Types of Online Courses
In addition to online courses, we also offer "blended" courses that include a weekly in-person meeting and "live online" classes that include a regularly scheduled live session. Check your schedule to make sure you're signed up for the course type you want. For more information, use this Guide to In-Person, Web, and Blended Courses.
What to expect in online/remote learning
Students are sometimes hesitant about taking classes online, but you don't need to be! Online learning gives you the convenience of learning anywhere combined with the personal component of interacting with your instructors and classmates to enhance your education experience.
Here you'll find all the tips you need to make sure you're ready for a great online or remote learning experience.
Pre-Semester Checklist
Academic Tools
Blackboard
Blackboard is Columbus State's online learning management system. In Blackboard, online students communicate with their professors, find multimedia presentations, and talk to other students via message boards and chats.
Log in to Blackboard
Blackboard Help Site
Blackboard Student Orientation
MoreOnline/Remote
Learning Tools
We support a number of other tools for remote and online learning. Find information on videoconferencing, mobile apps, email, and other tools that may be used in your courses.
Online Learning Help
Keys to Being an Effective Online Student
Carving out your learning space
Attending online classes and studying in your home can be a big change for some. In many cases, we are sharing space with others in the household who are also learning or working, which is a lot of togetherness! Here are a few tips to help you focus on your studies for greater success.
- Find Your Place.If you can, designatea space in your home where you can have your own workstation to do your focused work – and make sure that everyone understands what that space is devoted to.
- Make a Schedule. Create and post a time-management plan in a visible area so that you can see it (as a reminder), and so household members know when you will be unavailable.
- Be Flexible. If you are taking care of children/family members or have other responsibilities, set the best schedule you can and be open to adjusting the schedule if you find it does not work.
- Practice Patience. There will be times when none of the above will work. Be patient with yourself and your housemates and give yourselves credit for everything you are managing together.
Tips for online/remote learning success
Download apps
Aside from Blackboard, you may be using WebEx or other technologies. Download needed apps and practice beforehand, if possible.
Check your Columbus State accounts often
Expect to log into Blackboard and check your Columbus State email often (daily is best) to review any updates/announcements from your professor, keep up with the work for your classes, and get important communications from the College.
Keep an eye on discussion boards
Online courses may require you to write posts in a discussion board and respond to what other students wrote. Since you never know when the other students will post, you will need to log in regularly.
Ask questions (in and out of class).
Email your professor right away with any questions about their class. They want to hear from you! In your email subject line, specify which class you are in because they may teach multiple classes.
Contact Student Central
Student Central is the place to ask any questions about other Columbus State processes or problems. Call (614) 287-5353 and our student success specialists will guide you in the right direction. Remember, they are here to answer your questions, no matter how simple or complicated!
Plan Your Work
Create a list of things you need to complete at each “work session” and set a timer. Try not to allow any distractions during this time that is set aside for school.
Stay Healthy
Remember to make your physical and mental health a priority!
- Eat healthy foods
- Sleep 7-8 hours a night
- Stay well hydrated
- Practice mindfulness (search the app store for "mindfulness" for free apps)
Remember, we’re in this together!
Many professors have extensive experience in the classroom, but not every professor is an expert at online technologies. Please have patience, demonstrate kindness, and offer grace. They will do the same for you. They truly want you to succeed.
