Who Should Take An Internet Class?   

These classes are designed for students who are:
--highly motivated
--self starters
--non-procrastinators
--computer and Internet literate

Don't take an Internet class if you:
--are taking it because you think it will be easier than a regular college class
--have to be reminded of approaching deadlines
--put things off until the last minute
--hate computers   

I'm new to Internet Courses, what will be expected of me?   

In an Internet course, academic expectations are similar to a classroom course. Do the reading in the assigned text, take quizzes and exams, do extra credit if needed, participate in class discussions, watch videos, do some outside research, write papers, consult with your instructor if you need help. The difference is that many of these activities can be performed at a distance from the comfort of your own home and computer.
For example, you may participate in electronic discussion forums (like class discussions-but not in real time), do research (on the Internet), talk to your instructor (e-mail or phone), discuss topics with other students (electronic forums), take quizzes (online), and submit assignments (electronically). Detailed guidance is provided in the course syllabus to assist you and clarify expectations for every course. Included will be the course policies, assignments, due dates, grading criteria, extra credit options, contact numbers, etc.  

What equipment/software will I need?   

For Web courses you will need at very minimum a 90 mhz multimedia computer with a 56K modem and a hook-up to the World-Wide-Web. An ideal system would be a Pentium speed 350 mhz or faster machine with a 56K modem or DSL connection and a direct Internet account. You will also need an e-mail address with the ability to send and receive messages. It is important to be able to use either the latest version of Firefox or Internet Explorer as your Internet browser. While America Online will provide some Internet access, direct Internet accounts are preferable such as those available from Earthlink, GTE, Pacific Bell, and others. Some course content is available (but not required) by streaming video. For this you will need a “plug-in” such as flash player or windows media player.  These players are for viewing and listening to streaming audio/video files may be downloaded and installed on your computer for free by visiting the site noted on the course Web page.  

What if I don't have my own computer. Could I still take a Distance Learning Class?   

If you do not have personal computer equipment, have a slow system, or have a computer problem during the semester, it is possible for you to come to the nearest CBC location to visit one of the College's Student Success Centers to access the class on a computer at that location. Additionally most libraries now have public access to the Internet which would allow you to take these online classes. Please consult the Distance Learning Dept. if you have additional questions about access.  You can also click here to gain information about CBC's Technology Loaner Program.  

Will I have to come to campus?   

In general, No. All coursework can be conducted over the Internet via the World-Wide-Web or with a combination of media materials. However, one midterm and one final exam may require on-site attendance and photo I.D. If your instructor requires a proctored exam, please contact your local CBC testing department to schedule an appointment.  (Students are notified of any courses that require on-site activities).   

How can I contact my instructor?   

The instructor is available by e-mail, during scheduled office hours by phone/voicemail, and by scheduled appointment for personal visits. The instructor contact information will be provided either on the course homepage or on the course syllabus. The instructor will also monitor the class bulletin board forum. At other times the Helpdesk staff may be able to help answer routine questions.  

What if I have to miss a class?   

Well, with web classes you don’t have to worry! You may work ahead, or catch up a little as you need to. While a general weekly timeline is provided to help you pace your time, your schedule is really your own. Just be careful not to miss submission deadlines for assignments or fall behind in your reading. All students keeping pace and doing conscientious work should do well in the class.   

What if I have a problem with my computer or equipment?   

While the college cannot provide detailed help with personal computer problems, free technical referral and assistance is available. Since we are familiar with common technical problems distance learning students may encounter, we may be able to help you with a modem problem, an Internet provider difficulty, or at least refer you to a source for assistance. Go to our distance learning webpage or call (361) 354-2508 for telephone call-back assistance. However, in the midst of all this, it is still the responsibility of the student to find a working computer with Internet access to continue with their online course.  

How do I get my username and password for Cougar Den?

To determine your username for Cougar Den, try these steps in the order presented until you successfully login:

• Step 1:  use your first initial last name (for example: ycharles)  
• Step 2:  use your first initial, middle initial, last name -- IF you do not have a middle initial, proceed to step 3 (for example: yacharles)  
• Step 3:  use your first initial, middle initial (omit if none), last name followed by the number 1 (for example, ycharles1) -- If unsuccessful with the number 1, try 2, then 3, then 4, etc.).  

What is my email address that is assigned to me when I register for classes at CBC?   

Your email address is your username followed by: @study.coastalbend.edu   

Your username is the same username you enter to login to Cougar Den. There are no spaces in the username, and always use lowercase letters for your name. Example: jsmith@study.coastalbend.edu   

Who can I contact regarding my Blackboard student account?   

Contact the Distance Learning department at 361.354.2508 or toll free at 866.722.2838 ext. 2508 for assistance with Blackboard. You may also send an email providing as much detail as possible (including CBC ID number) to distancelearning@coastalbend.edu or to helpdesk@coastalbend.edu  

I have logged into Blackboard several times but now I keep getting incorrect username or password.   

Contact the Distance Learning department at 361.354.2508 or toll free at 866.722.2838 ext. 2508 for assistance with Blackboard. You may also send an email providing as much detail as possible (including CBC ID number) to distancelearning@coastalbend.edu or to helpdesk@coastalbend.edu   

What is Respondus LockDown Browser?   

Respondus LockDown Browser is a secure browser for taking assessments in Blackboard. It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during an assessment. If an assessment requires that Respondus LockDown Browser be used, you will not be able to take the assessment with a standard web browser. Respondus LockDown Browser should only be used for taking Blackboard assessments. It should not be used in other areas of Blackboard.  

How do I install Respondus LockDown Browser?   

To download and install Respondus LockDown Browser, click here and read the information, then follow the steps to install the program.   

How do I take an Assessment in Blackboard using Respondus LockDown Browser?    

1. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect to the Internet.  
2. Locate the “LockDown Browser” shortcut on the desktop and double-click it (for Macintosh users, launch “LockDown Browser” from the Applications folder).  
3. If prompted to close a blocked program (e.g. screen capture, instant messaging), choose Yes when prompted.   
4. Login to your Blackboard course.  
5. Click on the course in which you need to take your assessment and navigate to the assessment and select the Begin Assessment button. (If the Begin Assessment button is disabled, it means that you are not running Respondus LockDown Browser.)  
6. Once an assessment has been started with Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot exit until the Finish button is clicked.