By Carla Laplaca

Being new to Myriad, it is fitting that I begin with an introduction and explain a bit about why I am here.

A home-schooling mother of two, I began SCAD’s e-learning program in winter of 2010.

Currently a senior, working towards a BA in Visual Communications with concentration in Graphic Design, my interest in the intricacies of communication has grown considerably and I have discovered how crucial student involvement is to the success of online learning.

Over the past two years, my network of peers has grown to include many talented students, a handful of whom have become close friends. I am here to encourage you to reach out to other students and benefit from one of the most valuable resources your time at SCAD has to offer.

Along the way, I hope to offer up some tips that will make your online courses go smoother and guide you towards success in the SCAD e-learning environment.

As we find ourselves well into Spring Quarter and at the end of our first discussion grading period, mention of the dreaded discussion board is in order. I use the term ‘dreaded’ sarcastically. In reality, the discussion board can be a wonderful tool should you choose to use it to your advantage.

Not only a resource for strengthening your own projects based on critiques, each post you author provides an opportunity to practice and develop communication skills that will serve you well as you deal with clients, superiors, and employers in real world situations.

Plus, it’s a great place to regurgitate the terminology and information you have read in the course materials, which can only increase your understanding (not to mention quiz scores).

Blackboard Instant Messaging is one of my favorite e-learning tools. If you haven’t installed this one yet – why not? Not getting enough feedback on the board? Pushing a deadline and need a second set of eyes fast? This is the place to be.

Many SCAD students are instantly accessible at just about any given time and I have never met one who wasn’t willing to help out where able. The program can accommodate one-on-one chats or study group scenarios.

Some professors use this platform to meet with students as well. The program is downloadable on Blackboard Learn and available to all students. Take advantage of it and don’t be shy!

I am looking forward to the opportunity Myriad has provided to reach out to e-learning students and communicate on a whole new level. My goal is to is to share what I have learned over the past two years, in hopes that your SCAD e-learning experience will be as fulfilling as my own.

Consider this an open invitation to voice your questions and suggest e-learning topics you are interested in. What are you waiting for? RSVP now!