Getting Ready for your First Course
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WebCT?
WebCT is a course software suite developed to deliver Internet-based courses. It is presently being used by universities and colleges all over the world to deliver online learning. We are very pleased that, with this system, we can provide extended learning opportunities to students within a dependable online format.
Do I have to install WebCT on my computer?
No, all the necessary software is available on the GSU server. You don't need to install any additional WebCT software on your computer in order to go to class--just login on the homepage.
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How do I access my Online Course ?
Students may log into WebCT to access their courses at http: http://webct.govst.edu and clicking on the " Login " link. Classes will be open for students to enter on the first day of class.
I don't see the course I registered for listed on MyWebCT login page.
Courses will appear on your login page (MyWebCT) on the day classes begin. Student names are automatically added the first day of class, and at that time you will be able to access your course. If classes have already begun and you do not see your class listed on the MyWebCT page, contact webctsupport@govst.edu.
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Once I've registered for class, how do I get my password and user name?
Once you've registered for a course, you will receive your login and password by mail from Extended Learning. If you experience problems obtaining your login, call GSU Extended Learning at (708.534.4099), or call the Library Reserve Desk (708.534.4112) for login help. If you cannot resolve your access difficulties through either of these services, email WebCTsupport@govst.edu. We generally are able to respond to request within one business day.
It is your responsibility to contact WebCT Technical Assistance if you experience difficulty logging in to your course. Do not wait for someone to contact you first.
General Login Information:
1. You may access your online course on the first day of class.
2. Bookmark our login page, http://webct.govst.edu.
3. Enter your User Name and Password.
Your User Name = your student id number. Use digits only. Don't add extra spaces. If you do not know your student id number, contact Extended Learning at (708.534.4099).
Your Password = your 4-digit PIN number. If you do not know your PIN number, call the Registrar at (708-534-4500).
4. After entering your User Name and Password, click OK. You will arrive at a page called “MyWebCT.” Locate your course name on this page, and click on the hyperlink. This link will take you to the homepage of your course.
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What if I forget my password?
If you need password assistance, contact WebCTsupport@govst.edu .
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What are the Rules of the Road for Online Learning?
GSU's online courses are based on the premise that students learn best in a community. The instructor plays an important role, but this is a different role than most instructors play in the physical classroom. You'll see a shift in the way classes work. However, some things don't change: the practices of courtesy and respect that apply in the ordinary classroom also apply online, and require even more attention.
Here are some guidelines:
1. Participate. In the online environment, it's not enough to show up! We need to hear your voice to feel your presence, and we especially need your comments to add to the information, the shared learning, and the sense of community in each class.
2. Be persistent. Remember that we're all working in a fairly new environment. If you run into any difficulties, don't wait! Send a note immediately to the instructor, and if it is a technical problem, contact WebCTsupport@govst.edu. Most problems are easily solved, but we have to hear from you before we can help.
3. Share tips, help, and questions. For many of us, taking online courses is a new frontier. There are no dumb questions, and even if you think your solution is obvious, please share it! Someone in the class will appreciate it.
4. Think before you push the Send button. Did you say just what you meant? How will the person on the other end read the words? While you can't anticipate all reactions, do read over what you've written before you send it.
5. Remember that we can't see the grin on your face when you make a sarcastic comment, we can't see the concern on your face if you only say a couple of words, and we can't read your mind and fill in the gaps if you abbreviate your comments. So help us "see" you by explaining your ideas fully. Use emoticons once in awhile. A winking emoticons looks like this ;-)
6. Remember there's a person on the other side. Ask for feedback if you're not sure how your ideas and comments will be taken. If you disagree with what someone has said, practice all your communication skills as you express that disagreement. "Flaming," or flying off the handle and ranting at someone else is unacceptable; it's the equivalent of having a tantrum, something most of us wouldn't do in an onsite, face to face classroom.
7. Any derogatory or inappropriate comments regarding race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, are unacceptable and subject to the same disciplinary action that they would receive if they occurred in the physical classroom. If you have concerns about something that has been said, please let your instructor know.
8. Plagiarism, cheating and other violations of ethical student behavior are serious actions in a learning community. You should expect to be treated accordingly. Specific policies regarding such actions are spelled out in GSU Policies.
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What about Firewalls and WebCT?
Are you attempting to access WebCT from your office? If so, you may run into problems with your company's network security system. If you have persistent difficulty getting into the course, contact your IT staff and discuss the issue with them. You'll need to work out the difficulties with your IT staff, as we have no control over such variables, nor do we have any idea what particular piece of the security system might be causing the problem. The best advice, of course, is to clear your plans with your IT staff before starting your course.
These same problems may occur if you are running a personal firewall from your home, regardless if it is third party software or the personal firewall that is included with Windows XP. If you are experiencing problems attaching files, downloading, etc., please disable your personal firewall and attempt the activity again.
How do I Set My Browser Preferences?
Each browser uses a slightly different route to get to and set the preferences -- the following will guide you to the correct preference settings in your browser. It is crucial to set preferences having to do with your Cache and with the browser's Java and Javascript capabilities.
Please go to http://www.webct.com and follow the directions for preparing your browser.
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What if I am using AOL?
If you use America Online (AOL) for Web access you will need the AOL version 4.0 or higher and the Internet Explorer 5.X (or higher) browser. Do not use earlier versions of the AOL client with earlier versions of Internet Explorer, as you will have difficulty accessing many of WebCT features.
For best results with AOL: Connect to the Internet using AOL version 4.0 or higher. Open a private chat within AOL (this allows the AOL client to remain open, without asking if you wish to disconnect). Minimize AOL. Launch a recommended browser.
What about Pop Up blockers?
Because pop-ups can be a real annoyance on the Internet, many users have installed a Pop-Up blocker. In addition, some Internet Service Providers, such as Earthlink, provide pop-up protection in their software. The use of pop-up blockers can affect WebCT functions such as mail, bulletin board, and quizzes—all of which utilize pop-up boxes. When you have popup blocking software installed, you may not be able to access your quizzes, discussions or class work.
Many pop-up blocking programs will let you temporarily disable them by clicking on the System Tray Icon. You can right click on them to disable and re-enable them later.
If you have installed SP2 for WindowsXP, you will have to turn off the automatic Popup Blocker. Go to the menu at the top of your browser, and select Tools/Popup Blocker/Turn Off Popup Blocker.
Empty your cache. What is a cache? This is where your computer stores information about every website you have visited. Then, when you return to the same URL, the computer first reads its memory, instead of going out for a fresh look at the site. Obviously, this can cause some problems when you're looking at a site repeatedly as you will with your WebCT course. Changes made to the pages won't show up if your browser is looking at old information.
Set your system default to clear the cache on every hit, or as frequently as possible -- how to set these and other preferences is explained in "Setting Browser Preferences" above. You will find the command that allows you to empty your cache in the same window as these settings. Make sure the cache is cleared if you're running into problems getting updated information.
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How do I print course pages?
WebCT 6 allows you to print a page by clicking the "Print" icon  in the upper right hand corner of a course page (your instructor may or may not make the print page option available). When you click the print icon, you will see a screen that allows you to checkmark the items you want to compile for the printer (such as various sections of the syllabus). Select the items you want to print and click "Continue." You will see a screen with the compiled files appear. Click either "Print" or "Save to File."
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How do I attach files in WebCT?
Your instructor may want you to submit your homework as an attachment to email, or you may need to attach a document to a Discussions post. The Bulletin Board and the Private Mail tools both have an Attachment button that allows you to "attach" the document to your mail message without copying and pasting.
Here's how:
- Open the window for a new message.
- Enter the subject line and other information as usual.
- Key in your message into the message window -- it is a good idea to explain to the recipient what to expect in the attachment.
- Look for the Attachments box beneath the message box.
- To locate your file, click on the Browse button, and locate the appropriate file on your hard drive or disk. Just double click on that file, and the path information will appear in the Attach window.
- Be sure to click “Attach File.” Unless you click this button, your file will not attach.
- To complete the submission, click on the "Post" button.
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What if I want to compose text offline?
Simply compose your messages in your word processor and then paste into the message window. Here's how (the keyboard short cuts are necessary at some stages; these will work for PCs):
- Select the content (Ctrl A)
- Copy the content (Ctrl C)
- Then close or minimize the word processor, log on to your class, open the Bulletin Board, open a new message window
- Click your cursor into the message box
- Paste the text into the message window (Ctrl V)
The Bulletin Board in my WebCT Class does not seem to update.
When you arrive at the Discussion board, new messages should be visible. To make sure you have all the current messages, click on the "Update Listing" button along the top menu in Discussions. You might also make sure that you've chosen All under "Display".
One of the first things your instructor may do is ask you to post a message to the Bulletin Board to introduce yourself to the class. To post a message to the Bulletin Board, click on the New Message button, enter your message, and then send it. To view the message you have composed and posted to the Bulletin Board, click the "UpDate Listing" button.
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