Roane State Community College

With some courses being delivered fully online, you may have questions about what online learning is like. Whether you’ve never taken an online class, have limited experience or are already an all-online student – this guide will help you achieve success at Roane State.

• Ask questions and communicate. Your instructors will provide information on how your class will be delivered online. Review all the information they send to you and ask questions if you do not understand. Continue to communicate remotely with your instructor as long as online learning continues. They are there to help you achieve success.
• Create a work area at home. You’ll need a dedicated space that can serve as your remote classroom. Try to keep this area as quiet, organized and distraction-free as possible so you can focus. This is where you’ll be studying, reading, watching lectures, writing papers, taking quizzes/tests, and checking email and Momentum for updates from your instructor. Try not to let household chores or other responsibilities cross over into your class time.
• Test your internet connection. You’ll need reliable, secure internet access when you begin courses online. If you are unable to get internet service at your home or have an additional accessibility challenge, notify your instructor immediately. They will help you find a solution. You can also check with the internet service provider(s) in your area about any special offers for students during extenuating circumstances such as these. Additionally, you can email need@roanestate.edu for assistance.
• Have questions about Momentum? Momentum is where you go to access your courses, it is Roane State’s learning management system. Momentum is the online area where you take your online courses. If you need assistance, send an email to ctatmailbox@roanestate.edu with your questions and someone will respond to help you.
• Check your RSCC email every day. Email is the main form of communication from the college to you. Check your Roane State email every day so you can stay up-to-date about what’s happening with your classes and other requirements. You will still be able to reach your success coach, academic advisor or any other RSCC representative via email even if we transition to remote operations. As always, make sure to include your full name and full course name when you contact your instructor by email so they have the information they need to reply to you as quickly as possible.
• Schedule time to study and complete your assignments. Online classes provide lots of flexibility, but students can sometimes fall behind because they don’t have a regular schedule. Remember, you’ll still be devoting the same amount of time and effort to your classwork online, you just won’t be traveling to campus. Be sure to set time aside that’s similar to your current schedule so you have an effective routine. Try also setting a goal to turn assignments in early so you can stay ahead.
• Take breaks as needed. Staring at a monitor or device for too long can cause eye-strain and exhaustion. Be sure to allow yourself to take a break from your studies – approximately 10 minutes every hour will help you stay focused and healthy.
• Need a study group? Arrange one remotely! Utilize video conferencing tools like Zoom or Skype, or take advantage of online group chats and discussion boards – whatever you’re most comfortable with – to interact with other students. Your peers can be one of your best resources. If you need technical assistance setting up a Zoom Room, email help@roanestate.edu and a help desk representative will respond.
• Access the Learning Center. Learning Center tutors are still available to help you achieve your academic goals. You can get feedback on essays and assistance with specific math formulas and equations through The Learning Center Online inside Momentum. You can meet virtually with a tutor in real time by scheduling an appointment through MyWCOnline. You also have 24-hour access to Smarthinking which offers tutoring in a wide variety of subject areas. For detailed information on how to take advantage of our services, visit the Learning Center page.
• Get Microsoft Office on your devices. Need to access software to complete an assignment? Visit our Office 365 page for instructions on how to download and install the full suite of applications in Microsoft Office 365.
• Meet one-on-one with your instructor. Even though campuses are closed, faculty members will still be available to meet with you remotely to answer your questions. Reach out to them and schedule a time for a phone call or video chat.
• Contact Counseling and Disability Services if you need them. If you currently have accommodations or feel that you may need accommodations through the Counseling and Disability Services Office, please email accommodations@roanestate.edu. For personal support through the Counseling Office, please contact Jeff Snell.
• Be patient. You’re not alone in navigating this new challenge. Your instructors and college staff are also learning how best to help you in a new environment. We ask everyone for patience and understanding during this time. We all want to succeed and do our best, together.
• Monitor the RSCC COVID-19 Resource Page. Roane State will continue to update the college community via our online resource page: roanestate.edu/coronavirus. It contains information about campus schedules, student services, frequently asked questions, and the college’s continued response to the coronavirus pandemic. Check it often if you need information. And be sure you are signed up for RaiderAlerts (text and email). RSCC will use that tool and others to communicate any major announcements as quickly as possible.
• We are still available for you! Just as you are learning from home, some of us are working from home. We are still available to answer your questions and help you in any way we can. Check your RaiderNet account for contact information for your success coach or academic advisor. Use the contact page available here to find a specific person’s contact information in the college directory.