Students at the University of Virginia School of Law are entering a new world of online learning Thursday. These quick tips will help them get started.
1. Get to know the online learning tool, Canvas, and review UVA’s checklist for online classes.
Most students have used Canvas, the Law School’s online course management system, before. But it will now be central, collecting recordings of classes, group messaging and more. The Student Technology Handbook has details on how to use Canvas.
UVA has also assembled a checklist for online learning.
2. Learn more about Zoom.
Zoom, an online interactive meeting tool, will be used for seminar courses and other kinds of classes that require more interaction. Here are some links to help master Zoom.
- The Student Technology Handbook has guidance on setting up Zoom. Professor Sarah Ware, co-director of the Legal Research and Writing Program, has a tip sheet on best practices.
- For students interested in using Zoom to connect with other students, this page offers ideas on holding better video meetings.
- For those who wish to take Zoom to a higher level, learn these keyboard shortcuts.
3. Stick with a schedule.
UVA Law’s Office of Student Affairs recommends setting a work schedule and sticking to it.
“It can be harder to be motivated when you are off on your own,” Assistant Dean for Student Affairs Sarah Davies ’91 wrote students. “You still need to be attending the lectures online, reading, outlining, studying and preparing for finals.”
These tips from UVA offer more advice about working from home.
For those who need help to keep moving forward, make an appointment with Student Affairs.
4. Prepare to communicate in new ways.
UVA has these tips on digital communications for remote learners. Now is a good time to keep in touch with classmates and friends via new digital channels. Zoom can be used outside of class as well.
5. The UVA Help Desk is available to resolve technical problems.
If you have trouble using the online tools or face a technical glitch, UVA’s Help Desk is on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are multiple ways to get help. Students are expected to attend classes and listen to recorded lectures, and should let teachers know if they are having trouble connecting to a class, and contact the Help Desk.
Founded in 1819, the University of Virginia School of Law is the second-oldest continuously operating law school in the nation. Consistently ranked among the top law schools, Virginia is a world-renowned training ground for distinguished lawyers and public servants, instilling in them a commitment to leadership, integrity and community service.
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