What do I need to know to get started?

The course syllabus is your guide to success in a NOVA Online course. Reading the syllabus carefully helps you understand what is expected, stay on top of deadlines, prepare with the right materials and technology, know how your grade is calculated, avoid common mistakes, and familiarize yourself with student support resources available for online learners.

• Review the list of course material to make sure you have everything required.
• Become familiar with the technology used in your course.
• Read the description of how you will be graded.
• Make note of course specific due dates.

Check your course syllabus and Canvas instructions to see which proctoring tool is required and complete any required setup before your first assessment.

Each course requires reading a textbook or other course materials. Additionally, a course may require using a study guide, course-specific computer software, video, or lab equipment. The materials you will need are listed in the course Online Syllabus. You can purchase these materials in the NOVA Online bookstore.  If you are participating in NOVA All Access, your course materials will be available in your course materials tab in the course

You will have your own important course dates which you can find in the Syllabus. The Important Dates include:

• Start Date: This is your official start date to begin your course.
• Last Refund Date: You may withdraw up to this date and have your tuition money returned. (Census Date)
• First Assignment Due Date: You must submit a required assignment before this date or you will be administratively deleted with no tuition refund.
• Last Date for Withdrawal: You may choose to request a withdrawal from the course up to this point and receive a W grade. After this date, you will receive the grade you deserve based on the work you have completed. Instructors also use this date to withdraw students who have not completed the amount of work as specified by their instructors.
• End of Enrollment date: This is the day your enrollment ends.
• Course End Date: This is the last day of the course.

If you are making satisfactory progress in your course, as specified by your instructor, but are unable to finish all course requirements by the end of the term, you may request an incomplete. This would allow you to have additional time in which to complete the remaining assignments.

If you have questions about your course, your instructor is there to help. Your first point of contact should be to email your instructor through the Canvas Inbox. You can also find your instructor's contact information in the syllabus and/or Welcome module.

Keep in mind that instructors may not be available when the college is closed, such as during holidays or between semesters

All students have various techniques that work for them when they are studying: The following are some of the strategies that can help you succeed in an online course.

• Create a study routine. Set aside dedicated study time each week and stick to it. Most three-credit courses require 6–9 hours of study per week.
• Study actively. Preview course material, then reinforce what you've learned by creating outlines, summaries, concept maps or other notes in your own words.
• Test yourself regularly. Use flashcards or other study tools to review key concepts throughout the week.
• Engage multiple senses. Read aloud, draw diagrams, explain concepts to someone else or listen to recordings of key topics to improve understanding and retention.

And when it comes to the test…

Most instructors provide information online or in the Course Guide about the kinds of test questions and the length of the exam. If you have questions, contact your instructor.

Review, review, review, and then relax.