O6 Finding extra help

O6-b: Preparing for possible technology challenges

O6-bBe prepared for possible technology challenges during the course.

Although you will probably complete your online course without any technological difficulties, it helps to have a backup plan. Thinking through potential technical problems before they arise can save you crucial time and effort and will ensure that you don’t fall behind in your course work. The following strategies will help you be prepared.

Know how to contact your school’s technical support in case you have difficulty accessing course materials. When you contact technical support, be prepared to explain the problem. Information about the browser you are using and any error messages you see, for example, can help technical support address your needs.
Know your school’s computer lab and library hours. Most schools provide students with access to computers in the library or in campus computer labs. Identify the location and hours of these resources in case your computer or Internet access fails.
Identify a backup computer. If your own computer malfunctions or if the on-campus lab is closed, you will still need to complete your assignments on time. Identify another computer, such as a roommate’s or a friend’s, that you have permission to access in an emergency.
Keep portable copies of all course work. Save all course work to a flash drive or e-mail it to yourself so that you still have access to your work if your computer malfunctions.