Are you new to distance education? Use this page to determine if online learning is right for you, find tips for succeeding in online courses, technology requirements and resources, and information on how to enroll in online courses at SLU.
Online Readiness Assessment
Distance education allows you to take courses and pursue skills or a degree on your own schedule. However, distance education presents a different set of challenges than traditional on-campus courses. Explore this brief introduction to online learning to determine it it's right for you.
Tips for Success in Online Courses
- Get organized. Read the syllabus at the start of the course and take note of all assignments and exams. Keep track of due dates.
- Manage your time. You should allocate time to complete your readings and assignments. If you fall behind in an online course, it is difficult to catch up.
- Be engaged. Actively participate in your online course. This includes contributing to discussion boards, emailing your professor, and checking your SLU email daily.
- Focus. You may be balancing multiple responsibilities while taking your online course. Make the most of your study time by setting up a distraction-free work zone.
- Take a break. Don't forget to include some downtime in your schedule to help you recharge. This will give you a boost to tackle your next task.
If you are taking an accelerated online course during summer or winter session, click here
Technology Requirements and Resources for Students Enrolled in Distance Education Courses and Programs
Minimum Technology Requirements
A high-speed internet connection is required for students enrolled in distance education courses and programs. At a minimum, students need:
- Regular access to a high-speed/broadband internet connection
- A functional computer with:
- Current internet web browsers
- A web camera
- Headset or microphone/speakers
Additionally, each school/college has minimum technology standards, which you may find here. Your distance program or course also may require additional technologies. Please check your course syllabi and/or your course website in Canvas for any additional technology requirements.
Bandwidth Recommendations
To maximize your ability to access your online course materials, please refer to the following information regarding bandwidth minimums and bandwidth testing.
Bandwidth for Online Learning Recommendations
Internet Browsers and Plug-Ins
SLU uses Canvas Learning Management System for online courses. Canvas works with most internet browsers except Internet Explorer.
You can verify if your browser is supported on the Canvas support site here.
Canvas Resources
Both SLU Information Technology Services and Canvas offer a variety of resources for students. Support is available within Canvas using the Help button on the main navigation bar. The number for Canvas support is 314-977-4000 (Option 3). Additionally, you may refer to this list of online resources.
Information For Enrolling in Online Courses
- For more information on course offerings and scheduling, click here.
- If you are a traditional undergraduate student at SLU registering for a course in the School for Professional Studies and need assistance, please contact the School for Professional Studies at 314-977-2330 or sps@slu.edu and an SPS adviser will assist you.
- Click here for information on taking online courses during summer or winter sessions.