With the current pandemic, many colleges and universities have transitioned to alternative ways of teaching. For many, this means online classes. At SFCC, we have taken the proper measures to allow our faculty the time to prepare for the best alternative instructions. Our faculty have been busy implementing creative strategies to teach their courses virtually.
While this may seem a little intimidating for some students, we can assure you that your instructors and the SFCC support staff are sincerely committed to making this transition as smoothly as possible and helping you succeed. Some of you may have experience with online courses, but many do not. For students who are now entering the world of online learning, here on some tips on how to use SFCC’s resources to your advantage.
- NAVIGATORS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND
Navigators are here for you virtually; you’re not alone! Never hesitate to contact your navigator with any questions, concerns or challenges. Your navigator will be reaching out to you, if they haven’t already, and they plan to keep in contact with you throughout the rest of the semester. This frequent outreach is built on dedication to students, their success and the recognition that questions will arise, and students need answers. If they don’t know the answer, they can lead you to someone who does. Yvette Sweeney, Director of Student Success, stated, “We want students to finish strong and navigators are a huge piece of their success network.” Starfish has been updated to reflect Navigator office hours and email/phone information. Meet the navigators at https://www.sfccmo.edu/offices-services/navigator-advising/meet-the-navigators/
- USE CANVAS TO YOUR ADVANTAGE
Canvas is the online platform you will use to find your assignments, course materials, grades, classmates, and instructor’s contact information. Your Dashboard is where you will find all your classes along with your To-Do List. Be sure to read all announcements sent to you on Canvas because your instructors will use this feature to post important information. Keep an eye on your to-do list, so you don’t miss any assignments. Want a peer’s feedback or input? Go to the People tab in your selected course to see who is enrolled in your class. Get in contact with your instructor and classmates quickly by using the Inbox feature. This feature allows you to email your instructor, classmates, or create a group with both. To use Canvas to your full advantage, download the mobile app to get instant updates and notifications. For steps on how to access Canvas as a SFCC student, visit https://www.sfccmo.edu/its-knowledge-base/canvas/
- STAY UP–TO–DATE WITH mySFCC
One of the most important SFCC resources offered to students is the mySFCC portal. In mySFCC, you can stay up–to–date will all campus and personal announcements, connect to Canvas and Starfish, see emergency alerts, get library access, and much more. Be sure to read all announcements to stay in the know with SFCC updates. Access mySFCC at http://mysfcc.sfccmo.edu
- PROCTOR LIBRARY
You can access online databases through mySFCC under Library > Databases. If you have any questions regarding Proctor Library materials and services, email library@sfccmo.edu.
- CAMPUS STORE ONLINE
The SFCC Campus Store is open online at sfccbooks.com. Make sure to order your books for second 8-week classes that begin March 30. The bookstore is offering free shipping through March 31. Use promocode STAYHOME.
- ONLINE ENGLISH/WRITING TUTORING SERVICES
Need feedback on a paper before turning it in for grading? Email your papers to Jennifer Jackson at jjackson5@sfccmo.edu. She will be available to review papers Monday through Friday and will return papers back within 48 hours from when it was received (the 48 hours do not include weekends, holidays, or school closures). Be sure to send your papers early, several days before it is due because you will need time to make corrections before submitting your paper to your instructor. For more information about online tutoring services, visit http://sfccmo.libguides.com/c.php?g=343723&p=3937281
- ONLINE MATH TUTORING SERVICES
Struggling with your math homework and need some additional guidance? Email your questions to Julie Crawshaw at jcrawshaw@sfccmo.edu. She is also offering an online Zoom meeting option. To do this, email your request for a Zoom Math Tutoring Room link to Julie. Zoom math tutoring is available Monday through Friday (beginning March 30) from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about online tutoring services, visit http://sfccmo.libguides.com/c.php?g=343723&p=3937281
Written by Megan Spencer, Social Media and Digital Communications Coordinator at State Fair Community College.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Megan! I run State Fair Community College’s social media. I grew up with a creative passion and have always loved drawing, painting, and crafting. My educational background is in graphic design and marketing. I love to help people, which is one of the reasons I started writing these blogs for SFCC’s students. It’s about community!
