Deans’ Message to Students


Dear Student:

I hope you will find this email helpful to you as you transition into a remote learning environment. Your faculty are actively preparing classes for the upcoming weeks and are dedicated to making your remote learning experience the best one possible. 

Do you have everything you need?

  • Computer and Internet Connection? Watch for an email from Information Services about resources for finding internet access.
  • Lab or Software Access? Watch for an email from your professor, if you are in a technology-focused course.
  • Textbooks? Please let your professors know if you no longer have access to your textbooks.

What are your next steps?

  • Log into Canvas and make sure all of you can see all of your courses. 
  • Watch for an email or Canvas announcement from each of your professors over the next week.  They will provide information on upcoming assignments, opportunities for discussion, ways to engage through advising and office hours and other expectations.

How can you be successful as a student when learning remotely? 

  1. Being in class remotely is being in class. “Remote” just means you are not on campus for a face-to-face class.
  2. Your active participation in class is important. You may participate in multiple ways, depending on your professor’s plans: Canvas Discussion Forums, Google Hangouts, completing all readings and other assignments. Take notes as if you were in class in person. Be sure to watch any videos at normal speed.
  3. Plan plenty of time for classes. You may think that learning remotely takes less time and effort than being on campus. Not true. Each face-to-face class meets for two and a half hours each week plus all your studying outside of class. Learning remotely is no different. Give your college experience the time and commitment it needs. 
  4. Keep in touch. Communication with your professors and advisors will help you stay focused and engaged. Communicate with friends and classmates, too—just like you would on campus. Consider setting up a study group of classmates by phone or Google Hangouts.
  5. Practice. If you are not confident with using Canvas, Google Hangouts, or other remote tools, connect with a friend and practice using the tools. 
  6. Take advantage of the support the college provides. (See resources below)
  7. If you have questions about Canvas, contact the Canvas 24/7 Support Hotline at 877-399-9103.
  8. Ask questions. This is new to all of us. 
  9. Set up a work space that has everything you need to focus on your classes and will limit distractions. Also, set up your new schedule. When are you in classes at the same time with others synchronously (same time as classmates)? When are you working in your classes on Canvas asynchronously (separate times from classmates)? Create your new routine. 
  10. Be patient with yourself, and be patient with others. This is an adjustment for all of us. Patience and kindness will go a long way.

OTHER RESOURCES:

  1. You have access to the Library through Canvas! Click on this icon in Canvas. You can ask a librarian about any research needs through chat or email (referencedesk@champlain.edu), or you can book an appointment to meet via Google Hangout or phone.
  2. The SMART Space—Sign up for a virtual coaching or tutoring session in Tutor Trac,  by contacting smartspace@champlain.edu, or calling Lauren Bruneau at 802-865-6422.
  3. Accommodations are still in effect! Any questions about this process can be directed to accessibility@champlain.edu or by calling (802) 865-5764.
  4. The Rental House, Production Stage, and Sound Studio are closed to protect your health.  Please see the FAQ on The View for more information about campus services.  
  5. Please regularly check The View for additional information or to submit your questions.