Remote Learning Support

To enhance your learning experience, this course utilizes the technologies listed below. For more information about each tool please review the suggested resource guides on this page. If you experience technical issues or have other technology related questions, then please refer to the support resources at the bottom of this page.

Course Technologies

Canvas/Courseworks

Canvas/CourseWorks is Columbia University’s learning management system. Every course at the School of Professional Studies has its own course site within Canvas where instructors and associates can share content, collect and grade assignments, and communicate with their students.

Log in with your UNI and password to access the complete course navigation.
For information on which browsers Canvas supports, please consult their Supported Browsers page.
If you want to learn more about Canvas, consult this Canvas Student Guide. We have also set up a Canvas Student Resources site with additional helpful links and tutorials.

Zoom Class Sessions

Zoom is a cloud-based HD video conferencing platform. Zoom allows faculty and students to meet in real-time via webcam and audio for online class sessions and virtual meetings. There are several resources available to familiarize you with the use of Zoom:

Download the Zoom App
Specific guides for each function:
- Testing computer or device audio
- Sharing your screen
Zoom Help Center's Getting Started Guides, including Frequently Asked Questions.

Columbia Libraries

Columbia University Libraries is a top-tier academic research library, with a collection that includes resources in more than 450 languages and primary source materials that span over 4,000 years of human thought.

The collection is comprised of 13 million volumes, over 160,000 journals and serials, as well as extensive electronic resources, manuscripts, rare books, microforms, maps, and graphic and audio-visual materials.

Most texts are available as PDFs or live links within the Canvas course site, but you may find others on E-Reserves. The majority of additional library resources commonly used by SPS students are available online.
Columbia University Libraries has staff dedicated to helping students with their research support needs. Contact Kae Bara Kratcha via email (kk3344@columbia.edu) with any questions or to schedule a meeting.

Prepare for Your Class Session

Please follow these best practice guidelines to ensure that you can fully participate in each Class Session:

Use a hard-wired Internet connection. A hard-wired internet connection (Ethernet) is highly recommended. Weak Wi-Fi will cause issues such as latency, choppy audio, and loss of connection.
Purchase a microphone/headset. Prepare to talk a lot during our Class Sessions! While many laptops come with built-in mics and speakers, we highly recommend that you use a USB-based headset with microphone, such as the Logitech H390 USB Computer Headset. If you are using a laptop with a built-in microphone, please use headphones or earbuds during the Class Session to avoid echo or feedback. Listening through speakers may cause echo that disrupts the entire class.
Be prepared to be on camera. Classes are social, and you should expect to fully engage with your peers, instructors, and facilitators via webcam. Most modern laptops have built-in webcams, but you may need to purchase a camera if you are attending class from a desktop computer.
Submit a support ticket if you need help.

Support

Technical Support

For 24/7 technical help with Canvas, click on Canvas Support in your course navigation menu to reach Canvas directly by telephone or live chat.
If you are having problems with Zoom or other aspects of your course, visit the School of Professional Studies' Helpdesk for robust technology guides and FAQs. For urgent assistance, submit a request by clicking the button below or by calling our toll-free support hotline: 1 (844) 654-9872.

REQUEST SUPPORT

Additional Support Resources

The Division of Student Affairs offers a number of services that can support you at SPS and beyond. Visit their website to learn about the Writing Center, tips on Career Design, and more.
To explore all of our student clubs and discover unique opportunities at the School of Professional Studies visit our Engage hub.
If you require accommodations for your remote learning, we encourage you to contact the SPS Disability Services liaison, Phong Luu via email (pl2693@columbia.edu) as soon as possible. The registration-review process takes approximately three weeks.
If you have additional questions about an existing accommodation request, contact Disability Services.
Columbia University Student Conduct and Community Standards are designed to uphold the highest standards of respect, integrity, and civility. If you experience or witness a violation of community standards or academic-integrity, please report the misconduct immediately.