Getting started
Welcome to online classes at Cowley College.

We’re glad that you’re here.  It is our goal to make your experience in taking an online class at Cowley a positive one. 

We would like to share some important information with you to help you get started.  Please print this or bookmark message for future reference.

When can you start your class?
Access to the online classes is granted about 10:00 a.m. on the first day of the semester unless the class is scheduled as a pre-session or a late-start class/2nd eight weeks class.  Please check your schedule in Campus Connect for the specific day that your online class starts.

Are online classes self-paced?
Cowley online classes are not self-paced.  You will need to be diligent in meeting scheduled dates for projects and assessments that must be completed during specific time periods throughout the semester.

What can you do prior to the start of the class?

• Be sure that you have regular access to a computer with internet connections.
• Read all of the information accessed through the links on the left side of this page.  You may want to print some of this to keep for future reference.
• Prepare your computer to take an online class.  Click on the link Computer Preparation and follow the procedures and information there.
• Check for special software requirements and Access Codes for all online classes. This information is included in the Class Schedules and in the course Welcome Page.  Unless specifically noted, all course written work must be submitted in Microsoft Word 2000 or newer (not Works).  No other programs for word processing will be accepted!
• Take the Online Orientation course which is required for all first-time online students about a month before classes begin each semester.  There is no charge for this Orientation course.  It must be completed before access is granted to your online course.
• Know your first User Name and Password.  This information is contained in the link at the left entitled Your First Password.  The WebCT ID is also contained in the student information in Campus Connect.

Where can I obtain books, software, and Access Codes (if required) for the online course?
Books, software, and Access Codes (if the course requires them) may be purchased at either Cowley College Bookstore on the Arkansas City Campus or Southside location in Wichita.  Please visit the bookstore website for specific details.  If you are out of the local area, arrangements may be made with the bookstore to mail your books to you.

Will attendance be taken in my online course?
Cowley instructors will be recording your attendance weekly to your online course.  To be counted present in your course, you must log in and complete your instructor’s attendance requirements for the week.  The week for attendance runs from 12:00 A.M. Sunday morning through 11:59 P.M. Saturday night.  Please check the individual course syllabus carefully for requirements or check with your instructor.  If these requirements are not satisfied, you will be counted absent for the week.

How do I get help if I run into trouble?
If you have problems with the technology (web access, course access and navigation, etc) during the duration of the course go to the Frequently Asked Questions link at the left of this page.  This includes answers to many common problems you may encounter.  If you are still having problems after following the FAQ page’s recommendations, you may file a ticket with the Help Desk.   Every attempt will be made to respond to your ticket within 24 hours.  Be sure to include complete, specific information concerning your situation.