If you have registered for an online course, here is what you need to do before the semester begins.

1. Read through the FAQs to make sure you understand how SPD Online courses work.

2. Make sure that the SOLAR System has your updated e-mail address. We need this address so we can send you necessary information. Be sure to check off the "Preferred" box in SOLAR next to the e-mail address you would like to use. Also, if your e-mail program is running a spam blocker filter, be sure to add "stonybrook.edu" and "sunysb.edu" to your list of approved addresses.

3. CHECK BLACKBOArd for course information 10 DAYS prior to the start of the term. Ten days prior to the start of the term (occasionally earlier) all of the online courses will be made available in Blackboard. You will need to go into SOLAR and set up your NetID password to use Blackboard. Specific directions can be found by clicking on the appropriate link below:

• New Online Student Information page (for those who have never taken an online course at Stony Brook, or who haven't taken one in quite a while)
• Returning Online Student Information page (for those who have taken an online course at Stony Brook)

4. BE PREPARED TO LOG IN PRIOR TO THE START OF CLASS. Once the courses are available, log on to Blackboard immediately. Blackboard contains a "course" called SPD Online Support that contains tutorials and a pre-semester checklist that must be completed prior to the first day of class.

Blackboard Training

Blackboard Video TutorialsShort videos that demonstrate how to use the various features of your course.
» Blackboard on demand videos

Online Learning Orientation — Spring 2012
SPD held a webinars for new online students in the Spring 2012. The webinar lasted approximately one hour.
» Watch a recording