in this issue
LEARNING CENTER SUMMER 2020
POLICIES & PROCEDURES Testing Center Policies and Procedures How to Borrow Laptops & Hotspots How to Thrive in Online Classes Dealing with Email Overload Acing Essays |
Learning Center Policies & Procedures
Summer 2020 Hours of Operation:
June 1 through July 23
Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
(636)584-6688
[email protected]
Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
(636)584-6688
[email protected]
Tutoring
Online & in-person
online
• Chat: Click either the “chat with a math tutor” or the “chat with a writing tutor” button on the Learning Center web page. A tutor will be available to answer quick questions relating to math, science, or writing.
• Online Writing Center: students may submit papers to the Online Writing Center at any time. Comments will be returned within 24 hours, excluding weekends and spring break. Papers received over the weekend or during break will be returned on Monday when the college re-opens.
• Video Conferencing: You may conference with a specialist during business hours using Zoom or Teams. To schedule an appointment for online tutoring, please call (636)584-6688 or email the Learning Center.
• Phone Appointments: If it is more convenient for you to speak with a tutor via telephone, this can also be done by appointment. To schedule a telephone conference, please call (636)584-6688 or email the the Learning Center.
• Online Writing Center: students may submit papers to the Online Writing Center at any time. Comments will be returned within 24 hours, excluding weekends and spring break. Papers received over the weekend or during break will be returned on Monday when the college re-opens.
• Video Conferencing: You may conference with a specialist during business hours using Zoom or Teams. To schedule an appointment for online tutoring, please call (636)584-6688 or email the Learning Center.
• Phone Appointments: If it is more convenient for you to speak with a tutor via telephone, this can also be done by appointment. To schedule a telephone conference, please call (636)584-6688 or email the the Learning Center.
on-site
• In-Person Tutoring You may work with a specialist during business hours, either drop-in or by appointment. However, scheduled appointments take priority. To schedule an appointment for online or in-person tutoring, please call (636)584-6688 or email the Learning Center.
• Phone Appointments: If it is more convenient for you to speak with a tutor via telephone, you may call (636)584-6688 or schedule a telephone conference with your tutor via email.
• Phone Appointments: If it is more convenient for you to speak with a tutor via telephone, you may call (636)584-6688 or schedule a telephone conference with your tutor via email.
Evenings & weekends
• Online Writing Center: students may submit papers to the Online Writing Center at any time. Comments will be returned within 24 hours, excluding weekends and spring break. Papers received over the weekend or during break will be returned on Monday when the college re-opens.
• NetTutor: After hours and on weekends, NetTutor is available free of charge for ECC students.
• NetTutor: After hours and on weekends, NetTutor is available free of charge for ECC students.
Learning Center Computers & Study Tables
The Learning Center will be open for student use starting July 1.
No appointment is needed, but social distancing rules will apply.
No appointment is needed, but social distancing rules will apply.
636.584.6688
[email protected]
[email protected]
***Starting July 1***
Masks are required in the Learning Center
*
NO group study room use
*
Enter through glass doors only
*
occupancy is limited
testing centerAfter July 1, the Union and Rolla Testing Centers will allow testing by appointment. * We are open on a limited basis for external testing. * Accuplacer testing can be accommodated on a limited walk-in basis. * No class testing will be available through the Testing Center. If you have questions about testing for your summer course, please contact you instructor.
Monday -Thursday: 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Fridays 7:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. laptops and Hotspots Available
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other WiFi options
ECC's WiFi service extends to our campus parking lots, if students choose to work from their vehicles.
In addition, Scenic Regional Library has made its wireless internet accessible at all branch locations in the parking lots 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no password or library card required to access the network.
In addition, Scenic Regional Library has made its wireless internet accessible at all branch locations in the parking lots 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no password or library card required to access the network.
new to canvas?
So. Many. Emails.
5 Ways to Deal with Email Overload
Is your inbox overflowing? Are you finding it hard to keep everything straight? Here are five TLC Tutor-recommended tips for taming your clogged inbox.
1. Use a planner. When you get an email about an assignment, immediately write it in your planner. Do this for all classes, so assignments are all in one place, rather than scattered throughout your inbox. It can also be helpful to set calendar reminders on your phone for important due dates.
2. Create a separate folder for each class. After you log assignments in your planner, move class emails into folders, so you have them for future reference. This keeps your inbox clear.
3. Create a rule for instructor emails. If you want to sort emails before they even reach your inbox, you can create rules that send instructor emails straight to class folders. Click HERE to learn how to do this. This tip can help you to stay focused on one class at a time without being distracted by the rest of your inbox. However, you will have to check each folder separately because instructor emails will not appear in your inbox.
4. Turn on push notifications. If you’re an avid multi-tasker who doesn’t struggle with distractions, this tip may be right for you. Push notifications help you deal with emails as they come in, rather than having to wade through so many all at once. Simply get the Outlook app on your phone, then go through your settings>Outlook App>Notifications.
5. Create a folder for ECC policies. During the current situation, things change rapidly. A folder will help you find the latest information quickly.
If you have questions about how to create folders, turn on push notifications, or turn them off, feel free to contact Alison for help. (636) 584-6660 [email protected]
1. Use a planner. When you get an email about an assignment, immediately write it in your planner. Do this for all classes, so assignments are all in one place, rather than scattered throughout your inbox. It can also be helpful to set calendar reminders on your phone for important due dates.
2. Create a separate folder for each class. After you log assignments in your planner, move class emails into folders, so you have them for future reference. This keeps your inbox clear.
3. Create a rule for instructor emails. If you want to sort emails before they even reach your inbox, you can create rules that send instructor emails straight to class folders. Click HERE to learn how to do this. This tip can help you to stay focused on one class at a time without being distracted by the rest of your inbox. However, you will have to check each folder separately because instructor emails will not appear in your inbox.
4. Turn on push notifications. If you’re an avid multi-tasker who doesn’t struggle with distractions, this tip may be right for you. Push notifications help you deal with emails as they come in, rather than having to wade through so many all at once. Simply get the Outlook app on your phone, then go through your settings>Outlook App>Notifications.
5. Create a folder for ECC policies. During the current situation, things change rapidly. A folder will help you find the latest information quickly.
If you have questions about how to create folders, turn on push notifications, or turn them off, feel free to contact Alison for help. (636) 584-6660 [email protected]
Overwhelmed by the paper you have coming up?
You’re not alone. We asked student tutors about the challenges of writing and possible solutions. Here’s what they had to say.
Tony Terry, a math tutor, finds it a “struggle to meet the minimum page requirement or to stay under the maximum.” This can be tough, but Tony had a suggestion: “One key to essays in my experience has been a thorough brainstorming session. While it can be difficult to compress ideas, it’s much better to have extra information rather than not enough.” If you’re having trouble brainstorming, check out our “How to Beat Writer’s Block” resource.
“Finding a topic to write about is the hardest part for me,” Nathan Searcy said. “The topic needs to meet the requirements for the essay and has to be something I care about. If the topic interests me, the essay writes itself and is easy and even fun.” Gary Dunne seconded Nathan’s idea: “Deciding on a thesis statement is something I find very difficult, and I always end up changing it so that each of my paragraphs relate to it.” However, Gary notes that after the thesis comes together, “the words start to flow, and all the stress ends up being worth it.” If you are struggling with writing a thesis statement, check out our “Thesis Workshop.”
Still, writers don’t have to start with the thesis. Morgan Holdmeyer, a math tutor, likes to work in reverse. “Although the standard approach is to form the argument first, I have a tendency to generate my essays in sort of a backward sense. I sift through information and ideas to then form an argument out of them. While this approach works for me, it isn’t what I have been pushed to do in my classes and doesn’t always fit the ‘pre-writing’ process that some instructors prefer,” she said. In the Learning Center, we can help you to start a paper from the beginning, middle or end. Make an appointment with a writing tutor to learn more.
We can also help with organization. Many people struggle to structure clear paragraphs and transition smoothly from one topic to the next. Our self-editing checklist can be very helpful for this, and if you submit papers to the Online Writing Center, we always provide feedback for organization and structure.
Gary Dunne had a last bit of advice about using sources. “When you do find that perfect quote, be sure not to plagiarize. Don’t forget citations!” For help in formatting citations, make an appointment with a tutor or check out our online resources.
Here in the Learning Center, we can help with all your writing needs. We would like to thank our student tutors for sharing their challenges and suggestions.
Tony Terry, a math tutor, finds it a “struggle to meet the minimum page requirement or to stay under the maximum.” This can be tough, but Tony had a suggestion: “One key to essays in my experience has been a thorough brainstorming session. While it can be difficult to compress ideas, it’s much better to have extra information rather than not enough.” If you’re having trouble brainstorming, check out our “How to Beat Writer’s Block” resource.
“Finding a topic to write about is the hardest part for me,” Nathan Searcy said. “The topic needs to meet the requirements for the essay and has to be something I care about. If the topic interests me, the essay writes itself and is easy and even fun.” Gary Dunne seconded Nathan’s idea: “Deciding on a thesis statement is something I find very difficult, and I always end up changing it so that each of my paragraphs relate to it.” However, Gary notes that after the thesis comes together, “the words start to flow, and all the stress ends up being worth it.” If you are struggling with writing a thesis statement, check out our “Thesis Workshop.”
Still, writers don’t have to start with the thesis. Morgan Holdmeyer, a math tutor, likes to work in reverse. “Although the standard approach is to form the argument first, I have a tendency to generate my essays in sort of a backward sense. I sift through information and ideas to then form an argument out of them. While this approach works for me, it isn’t what I have been pushed to do in my classes and doesn’t always fit the ‘pre-writing’ process that some instructors prefer,” she said. In the Learning Center, we can help you to start a paper from the beginning, middle or end. Make an appointment with a writing tutor to learn more.
We can also help with organization. Many people struggle to structure clear paragraphs and transition smoothly from one topic to the next. Our self-editing checklist can be very helpful for this, and if you submit papers to the Online Writing Center, we always provide feedback for organization and structure.
Gary Dunne had a last bit of advice about using sources. “When you do find that perfect quote, be sure not to plagiarize. Don’t forget citations!” For help in formatting citations, make an appointment with a tutor or check out our online resources.
Here in the Learning Center, we can help with all your writing needs. We would like to thank our student tutors for sharing their challenges and suggestions.
Help!
All my classes are online!
All my classes are online!
So, there you are one day, taking classes, getting things done, and then a global pandemic erupts. Suddenly, all your classes are online, people are talking about Zoom and Teams (?), and everything has changed. The good news is, the challenges of online courses are well understood and totally manageable. Below, you will find the tips and tricks you need to survive and even thrive in this new online environment.
Communication/Learning Management system
To be successful in an online course, you'll need to prioritize clear, timely communication with your instructors.
In general, ECC instructors will use two main forms of communications with students:
1. email
2. Canvas
In general, ECC instructors will use two main forms of communications with students:
1. email
2. Canvas
If you received this newsletter via email, great! You are already aware of the importance of checking email during this crazy time. If you received this newsletter via the Learning Center web page and do not know how to find your ECC email or log into it, this is what you do:
1. From the ECC home page, click "FalconMail" in the upper right corner. 2. When prompted to log in, use your ECC username plus student.eastcentral.edu. For most students the username will look like this: first name.last [email protected] 3. Enter the password you use for Canvas and eCentral. If you do not know your username and password, here's what you do: 1. Return to the ECC home page 2. In the upper right corner, click "eCentral" 3. Click "Students" (blue bar) 4. Follow the prompts to find your username and password 5. If you cannot reset your password, you will need to request IT support. IT Help Desk
636-584-6738 |
Starting in Summer 2020, ECC will be using Canvas as its Learning Management System
To access Canvas, here's what you need to do: 1. Go to the ECC home page. 2. In the upper right corner, click "Online Learning" 3. Log in using your username (without student.eastcentral.edu) and password. 4. On your dashboard, you should see a number of course cards. Click on each course card, and the course home page will appear. |
Additional Technology
In addition to email and moodle, your instructor may use other technologies for instruction. The most common technologies used will be Zoom and Microsoft Teams. Luckily, these platforms are not difficult to use! Even better, your instructor will do most of the heavy lifting in setting up class lectures and meetings. Here's what you need to know:
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Time Management
Effective time management is critically important for success in online classes.
If you don’t already use a calendar for planning assignments and important due dates, now is the time to start!
If you don’t already use a calendar for planning assignments and important due dates, now is the time to start!
Here's How to Get Started
Getting organized can seem overwhelming at first, but it's essential in an online environment where you might not have the benefit of weekly in-person reminders from an instructor.
To get started, decide what kind of time management system you prefer. You might choose a paper system, an online system, or a combination of both. If you like paper systems, consider printing out our time management resources. Alternatively, you can use Google Calendar or the Outlook calendar that can be found with your FalconMail in Office 365. There is also a calendar in moodle (in the left side bar our your course).
Whatever system you choose, take each of your classes one-by-one and try this handy checklist:
_____Is it still meeting at certain days and times each week? If so, put those dates your schedule for the rest of the semester.
_____Are you able to attend these meetings? If not, immediately contact your instructor to discuss alternatives.
_____When are the big due dates? Schedule large papers and tests for the rest of the semester.
_____What small assignments do you know about already? It's easy to overlook these, so take the time to put them in your schedule now.
_____How many hours per week will you need to spend on this course? Schedule these hours in.
To get started, decide what kind of time management system you prefer. You might choose a paper system, an online system, or a combination of both. If you like paper systems, consider printing out our time management resources. Alternatively, you can use Google Calendar or the Outlook calendar that can be found with your FalconMail in Office 365. There is also a calendar in moodle (in the left side bar our your course).
Whatever system you choose, take each of your classes one-by-one and try this handy checklist:
_____Is it still meeting at certain days and times each week? If so, put those dates your schedule for the rest of the semester.
_____Are you able to attend these meetings? If not, immediately contact your instructor to discuss alternatives.
_____When are the big due dates? Schedule large papers and tests for the rest of the semester.
_____What small assignments do you know about already? It's easy to overlook these, so take the time to put them in your schedule now.
_____How many hours per week will you need to spend on this course? Schedule these hours in.
Additional Questions
_____When will you do this work?
_____Where will you do this work?
_____What supplies do you need and how will you get them?
_____Would a daily routine help you to get more done? How would this look?
_____Where will you do this work?
_____What supplies do you need and how will you get them?
_____Would a daily routine help you to get more done? How would this look?
Need to assess your time management skills and discover opportunities for improvement?
Try our Time Management Inventory
Need help setting weekly goals?
Try our Breaking Down My Week Handout.
Need Help with Goal Setting and Procrastination?
Check Out These Videos!
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focus/distractions
tech tips for increased productivity
Tools to Help You Stay Focused
Make staying focused a game. Forest is an app that allows you to build a tree on your phone whenever you want to focus. Once you start growing the tree, if you leave the app and go somewhere else on your phone, the tree dies. Make a list. Use a list-making or to-do app, like Toodledo, Workflowy, Remember The Milk, or Evernote. Track your progress. Phocus App includes timers, progress bar, pace-settings for work and break time. Get an assistant. The Pommodoro Assistant for Chrome uses the well-known time management system to improve your productivity. It gives you a prescribed interval of 25 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break. After 4 work intervals, there is a 15-minute break. Custom Short & long breaks • Toolbar icon with countdown timer • Desktop & tab notifications • Audio notifications with over 20 sounds • Ticking timer sounds • Scheduled automatic timers |
Tools to Help Limit Distractions
There are also many programs and browser extensions that can help you limit internet access:
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isolation
Feeling a little isolated during quarantine? Students can use the same tools as instructors to create study groups or connect with their fellow students. Don't know anyone in your class? The Learning Center can help you set up an online study group. Simply fill out the form on this newsletter (above right) or email Lisa ([email protected]). Tell us your name, email, and what class you are in. We'll try to facilitate a study group for you.
motivation
4 Ways to stay motivated
1. Momentum for Google Chrome or Firefox:
Momentum is a New Tab page that gives you a moment of calm and inspires you to be more productive with a daily photo and quote. You can set a daily goal/focus/intention and track your to-do list. Eliminate distractions and beat procrastination with a reminder of your focus for the day on every new tab.
2. Set up a daily check-in with an accountability partner.
Each day, share your goals with your partner. At the end of each day, talk about what did and didn't work, and set new goals for the next day.
3. Create a Vision Board.
Sometimes, it helps to have a visual reminder of your dreams. Use the Hay House Vision Board App to create a reminder of where you want to be at the end of the semester, when your finish college, and beyond. The app will allow you to upload images, quotes, and music.
4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset.
Momentum is a New Tab page that gives you a moment of calm and inspires you to be more productive with a daily photo and quote. You can set a daily goal/focus/intention and track your to-do list. Eliminate distractions and beat procrastination with a reminder of your focus for the day on every new tab.
2. Set up a daily check-in with an accountability partner.
Each day, share your goals with your partner. At the end of each day, talk about what did and didn't work, and set new goals for the next day.
3. Create a Vision Board.
Sometimes, it helps to have a visual reminder of your dreams. Use the Hay House Vision Board App to create a reminder of where you want to be at the end of the semester, when your finish college, and beyond. The app will allow you to upload images, quotes, and music.
4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset.
self care
Treat yourself like a friend
How to cope with anxiety
Zoom Virtual Background
My house is a disaster, and I have a Zoom meeting in 5 minutes!
As the pandemic continues, many adults are faced with Zoom meetings from home during a time when enforced togetherness can lead to less-than-perfect housekeeping. Fortunately, Zoom has a setting that allows you to use an image for your background, so you don't have to show the world your unfolded laundry. Here's what you do:
1. In the Zoom app, click your profile in the top right corner, and click Settings.
2. On the menu to the left, click Virtual Background.
3. You'll see a few options provided by Zoom. You can click on one of these, and it will automatically change your screen.
4. If you want to upload a photo to use as your background, on the same Virtual Background Page, click the + icon next to Choose Virtual Background. A box will pop up, so you can upload a photo from your computer. Click on the one you want, and it will become an option for you to choose.
5. To get rid of any photos you upload, tap the X in the top left corner.
1. In the Zoom app, click your profile in the top right corner, and click Settings.
2. On the menu to the left, click Virtual Background.
3. You'll see a few options provided by Zoom. You can click on one of these, and it will automatically change your screen.
4. If you want to upload a photo to use as your background, on the same Virtual Background Page, click the + icon next to Choose Virtual Background. A box will pop up, so you can upload a photo from your computer. Click on the one you want, and it will become an option for you to choose.
5. To get rid of any photos you upload, tap the X in the top left corner.