At the start of what will prove to be a unique and challenging semester at UNLV, the Office of Online Education recently held a livestream providing tips and resources for students who are expected to complete the majority of their coursework through remote learning. Panelists from Academic Advising, the Office of Information Technology, the Consolidated Students of the University of Nevada, the Academic Success Center, and faculty members addressed several questions they've received over the past week.

One concern that students may have about this coming semester is course material and the workload involved. Briana Whiteside, an assistant professor of English, said faculty are willing to adapt classes to students’ needs. 

“What we try to do as faculty members is keep [the student] in mind. We try to keep your learning styles in mind, your needs, and we are trained to practice more grace, and to keep your specific situation in mind.” Whiteside said. “In our faculty meetings, we have been advised to be more understanding as we would typically be in face-to-face.”

It's not just a question of learning styles, either. There are nuts-and-bolts considerations about the technical aspects that surround remote learning. Andy Borts and Hector Ibarra of the Office of Information Technology offered some tips:

• Laptops with a webcam and microphone are ideal for online learning.
• Laptops, webcams, microphones, and Wi-Fi hotspots are available for loan from Lied Library.
• An ethernet connection from your router to your computer can minimize the risk of internet connectivity failures. 
• There are numerous locations on campus that provide Wi-Fi for students, and computer labs will be open. 
• Call the Office of Information Technology Help Desk at 895-0777 when assistance is required.

Time management will be a critical skill for students to develop this semester, and success can hinge on something as simple as setting up a designated space for study away from distractions. 

“Celebrate where you are," said Jeff Orgera, associate vice provost for student success. "I know you have a lot of questions and things are uncertain right now, but you’ve worked really hard to get here.Embrace the uncertainty through questions and curiosity and self-care and being good to yourself. This is a real opportunity to invest in yourself and your educational goals at UNLV.”

Watch a recording of the livestream below and get answers to frequently asked questions here.