Getting Started in Your Online Learning Classes

Congratulations! If you have arrived at this page, you have likely registered for an Online Learning class at Colorado Mountain College. Being prepared for the beginning of the semester is vital to your success in online learning. Please complete the following steps to get started.

Step 1

Your textbooks are provided and included when you register for classes through the extra LMP fee. Most textbooks are ebooks and can be accessed at Learning Materials Program. If your class has a physical textbook, it will be mailed direct to your home the first week of classes. Please make sure we have your current physical street address when you register for classes.

Step 2

Canvas is the CMC Online Learning Management System (LMS). See Basecamp/Online Learning (login required) to find directions on accessing your account and updating your personal information. Access to the course site in the learning management system should be available prior to the start date for the course. It is important to update your personal information with the email address you will use for the semester and a phone number where the instructor can reach you.

Syllabi are available in your Canvas course. Please contact your instructor if you would like a copy prior to the course being available. The course syllabus contains important information including instructor contact information, the course outline, required text, and instructions for accessing your class in the learning management system.

Step 3

Email the instructor at the address in the syllabus as soon as possible letting him or her know you have registered for the course. Some instructors will communicate through the learning management system while others use their own email distribution list. Receiving an email from you will help them build that list. Every student who registers for a credit course receives a CMC email account. In order to communicate quickly and effectively with our students, CMC requires each student to use their CMC email.

Step 4

Some Web courses use videos for part of the content delivery. The syllabus will have detailed information on how you can access the videos. If there are options for your course, decide which option works best for your situation and make certain you have access before the class starts.

Step 5

Brainfuse is an online tutoring service provided by Colorado Mountain College. Depending on the courses in which you are enrolled, you may find Brainfuse’s supplemental help an important part of your success. Visit Brainfuse.

Step 6

You should now be ready to read, watch, write, and otherwise study. Follow the syllabus, stay in contact with your instructor, and enjoy the learning!