For some people it can be intimidating to sign up for their first online class. You might have lots of questions such as:

• What tools will I need?
• How will I complete and turn in my work?
• Do I have to log in at a certain time?
• Is there help available if I need it?

If you have questions like these, read on!

What tools or software do I need?

Most of the online classes at Fitchburg State University will require you to have access to Microsoft Office software to complete your assignments in Word, Excel or PowerPoint depending on the subject matter.

Don’t own Microsoft Office? That’s okay! We will provide it to you at no cost while you are a student here.

All you need is your Fitchburg State student email username and password to log in and download your copy.

Once you register for an online class, you will be given access to Blackboard our “learning management system” (LMS). If you would like to see a demo try our sample course in Blackboard.

How will I complete and turn in my work?

Most online courses will follow a similar format in Blackboard. Your course materials will be uploaded by your instructor and organized by week or module. Students complete their assignments on their own computer, then upload the final document to Blackboard. The majority of classes will also include a discussion board. On the discussion board you will answer questions posted by your instructor and communicate with fellow students.

How will I purchase my textbook?

You can see which textbooks are required for your class by clicking the “Books” link on our seats list, or by searching for your class on the bookstore website.

Your instructor will also include information about the required textbook in the syllabus (available in Blackboard by the first day of class).

If your class requires a textbook, you may buy it in person or online from our bookstore.  There are also rentals available from the Fitchburg State University bookstore or you are free to use an alternate source to rent or purchase books.

Do I have to log in at a certain time?

Most online classes are offered asynchronously which means that you will not be required to log in to the class at a certain time of day or day of the week.

Usually your instructor will post expectations in the syllabus or in a welcome message. These expectations will often say something like, “Please post a response to the discussion board by Thursday. Reply to two of your peers’ discussion posts by Saturday.”

Some classes include a synchronous (at the same time) session. If your instructor requires you to log in at a particular time, those requirements should be listed in the seats list as meeting dates when you register for the class.

When classes include a synchronous session, the instructor and students usually use Zoom (a free video conferencing app). Everyone will log in at the same time and hold a discussion. Zoom can be downloaded to a computer or a smart phone and is very easy to use.

Is there help available if I need it?

Yes! We have a 24/7 helpdesk line 978-665-4500.  They can help with issues like passwords, connecting to Blackboard, etc.

Your instructor will also be available to help you via email, discussion board posts, and via phone if you set up an appointment. Remember, your instructor may not always be at a computer. Don’t expect an immediate response to your communication.  Similar to when you contact a business after hours, you will sometimes need to wait 24 hours for a response.

You will want to look ahead for the week and plan accordingly. If you have questions about an assignment, ask early in the week to leave yourself enough time to get the answer and complete your work before the due date.

You can also address general questions about Blackboard to Digital Learning.

Don’t forget about our demo course if you want to take a look at Blackboard and how a general online course is setup.

And if you need help with coursework in your classes, Fitchburg State University offers free online tutoring.

Thank you to Nicole Chelonis, Director of Digital Learning for her contribution to this blog.