Student Semester Startup Checklist

Students should review the following items at the start of every semester.

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Canvas TourUpdate your computer/softwareHigh-speed InternetFirst DayAppHelpCanvas HelpHave Fun!

Canvas Tour

If this is your first time taking online courses at FSW, you must complete the Canvas Student Tour.

This course provides an introduction to the Canvas learning management system, which is utilized in all FSW Online courses.

Be sure to go through the entire tour.

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Update your computer/software

At the start of every semester, it's recommended that you make sure you have fully updated your computer's operating system. FSW eLearning courses require that you use the newest version of either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox for full compatibility with course material. Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, and Safari are NOT recommended.

To Update Chrome:

You can download the current version of Chrome.
Or you can find instructions on how to update your current version of Google Chrome.

To Update Mozilla Firefox:

You can download the current version of Firefox.      

Or you can find instructions on how to update your current version of Mozilla Firefox.

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High-speed Internet

A high-speed internet connection is mandatory for all online courses. We utilize services that require a high-speed internet connection to function fully.

We also suggest that you use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi when working in any of these services.

You can use your favorite search engine to locate a free internet speed test to check your link.

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First Day

On the first day of classes, please log in to all of your courses to download and view your course syllabus. This is your contract with the professor and should be adhered to fully.

You will also want to check and make sure you have all the correct textbooks and course material that is stated in the syllabus of that course.

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App

The mobile Canvas App for either iOS or Android devices is a great tool to keep you up to date with discussions, announcements, and conversations while on the go.

When it comes to submitting assignments, taking quizzes, or viewing presentations, we recommend that you use a desktop computer, either a PC or a Mac, to have full compatibility.

Not all Canvas features may be supported on mobile devices.

If something doesn't work on your mobile app, you will need to use a desktop computer for that assignment/quiz/discussion.

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Help

If you need technical assistance, you can visit the Technology Center for walk-in technical support. 

They can assist you with getting your computer ready for MyLabs or Pearson services, and other various items.

You can also live chat with an FSW IT professional by clicking the "QUESTIONS? ASK VIKI" button on our homepage.

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Canvas Help

If the Canvas status report is "All Systems Operational," and you are still experiencing issues, please reach out to Canvas support following the steps below. A Canvas representative is available to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

• Log in to Canvas
• Click on the "Help" button in the global navigation menu.
• There are three ways you can reach out for assistance.
  1. Chat live through your computer 
  2. Call the 800 number
  3. Submit a ticket
• Locate the method you prefer and either call the number displayed using your phone, or click on the link to start a chat/ticket submission.

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Have Fun!

Have a great semester, and be sure to view the Welcome video announcement when you first log into Canvas.

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