Welcome to the course!  You have joined a group of over one and a half million students who are currently participating in a distance learning class in the United States. Research indicates that online students learn equally as well as those enrolled in a traditional course.  Regardless of the technology used, distance learning courses compare favorably with classroom-based instruction and enjoy high student satisfaction.

There are many advantages of distance learning: 

• Greater flexibility for both students and instructors.  Students may participate in classes from their homes, offices, and at more convenient times and locations.
• Online courses can be more focused on the learner and less on the instructor. 
• Many students benefit from the increased student-to-student interaction
• Many students are able to learn better and to a greater depth of knowledge through distance learning.

Are you READI?

Are you prepared to take online courses at CSM? Readiness for Education at a Distance Indicator (READI) is a tool which helps you determine your level of readiness for taking online courses. You will be asked questions on topics in the areas of how well you can use a computer; how motivated, organized, and self-directed you are; how you prefer to learn new information; and you will even be able to measure your on-screen reading speed and comprehension.

But relax, READI is fun. Your scores on this assessment will not prevent you from being able to take online classes, nor will your scores impact your grades in courses you may already be taking. READI is just being provided by CSM to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses better as you prepare to learn online. READI is a tool to help you succeed!

We encourage you to take a few minutes by completing READI survey at http://csmd.readi.info

Login information is:

• user: csmd
• pass: student

What Next?

This site is designed to make your online experience better by providing you with the resources, information and activities that will help you succeed online. Use the navigation on the top of the page or the arrow at the bottom to explore all the related information, including;

• Blackboard Information
• Online Learning at CSM
• General Resources
• Orientation Activities

Once you have completed these four areas, you can return to your course and begin by reviewing the course syllabus. Good luck!