Staying Connected
Academic Services
Student Supports
Technology Services
Health Services

Your engagement with the college community contributes to your success as a Lethbridge College student.

Tips to stay connected in the online learning environment

Treat time with your online class like a class on campus.

Allocate time each week to review the week’s material, participate in discussion boards, complete homework and ensure you stay up-to date on the material.

Log in and reflect on your learning.

Logging into your courses in CANVAS every day will enable you to reflect and respond to new posts and content, as well as prevent posts from piling up. Reflection and effective critical thinking takes practice and is a necessary skill for success. Critical thinking has many applications at college, including:

-reading a section of a textbook closely

-writing a thoughtful essay

-analyzing multiple-choice questions

You can review these tips in more detail on the eLearning Café learning support website.

Communicate effectively online.

The following five eLearning Café tips are suggested for effective online communication:

1. Understand the participation expectations of your instructor. For example, you may be required to participate in a minimum of one chat, create one original discussion post and respond to at least two posts created by your classmates. Be sure to complete at least the minimum requirements for participation in the course.

2. Be insightful. Understand the expectations of your instructor for the quality of communication in the course. If there is a communication rubric or marking guide, be sure to read it before you begin. In general, responses such as "I agree" in either a synchronous or asynchronous environment are unproductive. Consider supporting your ideas and opinions with reference to readings, research or course materials. Additionally, you may ask probing questions or make connections to the real world in your response.

3. Be timely. This is especially important when communicating asynchronously because it is not useful to join a discussion forum that is already finished. Be aware of deadlines for asynchronous communications and scheduled synchronous events. This will ensure that you are actively participating and gaining as much as possible from the experience.

4. Communicate clearly. Avoid acronyms, slang and abbreviations in your communication. This is your classroom, so your language choices need to be clear, appropriate and presented in full sentences. When composing an asynchronous message, it is advisable to proofread and edit your work before sending. Always follow netiquette, the code for acceptable conduct in your online communication. For a brief tutorial on online etiquette and a self-marking quiz, explore the Netiquette Core Rules.

5. Remember the human. Your instructor and classmates are not simply names on a class list; they are people and are part of this experience. If there is an icebreaker activity that involves introducing yourself, jump right in! Get to know the people you are working with in the course and be prepared to share your experiences, resources and questions with them as you work through the course materials. Making human connections in an online course will help you to feel less isolated and will provide you with additional support for your learning.

Connect to your campus.

Even though you may not necessarily be learning on campus, you can still show your school spirit and feel connected to Lethbridge College in other ways such as cheering on the Kodiaks or participating in special campus activities through social media and live streaming opportunities. Become a member of our online community with your favorite social media platforms.

@LC_Kodiaks

There are a wide variety of academic supports available to online students at Lethbridge College. Take advantage of these great services.

Buchanan Library

Buchanan Library, the hub of learning at Lethbridge College, serves diverse groups of users with diverse learning needs. Online students have equal access to all resources and services through a fully integrated, streamlined, and innovative service model, highlighted as follows:

Online students have seamless, remote access to all electronic resources (databases, ebooks, streaming videos, ejournals, etc) via library website;
For physical items, online students can utilize Interlibrary Loan services to have materials delivered;
For self-guided studies and researches, there are well developed research guides available through library’s website;
All library resources, physical or online, can be discovered through the library online catalogue.
Online students have access to all support services through email, phone, and real-time chat service:
- email: buchanan.library@lethbridgecollege.ca or library.infodesk@lethbridgecollege.ca
- phone: 403-320-3352
- real-time chat

Learning Café

The Learning Café, Lethbridge College’s learning assistance centre, can help you develop the skills, strategies and behaviours needed to be successful in your coursework and professional life. The Learning Café offers a variety of supports for online learners. Check them out!

Academic and study skills appointments (by phone, Skype, or Blackboard Collaborate):
- writing, research, and APA documentation
- math, sciences, and basic computer skills
- Canvas and online learning skills
- effective study practices, test taking, note taking, academic reading skills, time management
eLearning Café – a learning support website that provides resources on elearning and technology, study skills, writing and research, and math and science
Online Writing Dropbox – an online writing feedback service to help you develop the writing skills required in your courses. Though staff will not correct or edit your work, they will provide you with general feedback, use examples, and provide extra resources to support you through the writing process. Feedback is typically provided within three business days.

Contact the Learning Café early and often to access these valuable resources!

Accessibility Services

Accessibility Services provides flexible, innovative, and collaborative support for the success of diverse learners. We support prospective and current students with a variety of disabilities:

Learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, ADD/ADHD, sensory impairments, physical disabilities, mental health impacts, chronic medical conditions, and temporary mobility issues

We know you’re unique. That’s why we work with you to create your own pathway to academic success. Key services may include

disability advising
review of disability-related history and potential challenges
disability-related funding applications
requests for academic accommodations, including
- academic strategies, peer tutoring, alternate format materials, assistive technology & training, note taking
- specialized supports (e.g., interpretive services, educational care attendants)
- referrals to other campus services (e.g., accommodated exam services, health & wellness services) or community agencies

If you think you may require disability supports, be sure to contact Accessibility Services in advance of your coursework.

Testing Services

Testing Services supports online learners who need to complete course exams. Exams are taken online, on-campus, or at an approved testing location if you live outside the Lethbridge area. Exam procedures vary among courses and not all courses have an exam component. You can arrange your exam through Testing Services or by following the online learning exam procedures.

If you have a disability and have qualified for exam accommodations through Accessibility Services, you can make arrangements to write your exam by following the online learning exam procedures. It’s a good idea to inform your proctor in advance of your approved exam accommodations, and Testing Services will follow up with the proctor with additional details.

Need to talk to someone about adjusting your career and program goals? Looking for funding options? We are here to help.

Career Advising

Career Advisors at Lethbridge College are also Academic Advisors, and we can help you in your decision to choose or change your program based on your goals, interests, and values.  We have a variety of career assessments to help guide you and to start a conversation around your career choice.  To book a Career Advising appointment, call 403.320.3202 ext 4905

Office hours are 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Career Advising appointment times are Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Email advisor@lethbridgecollege.ca

 Career Development

We know planning for your career can sometimes feel a bit like a choose-your-own-adventure book. And it’s not always easy to know if you’re choosing the right path or if you’re adequately prepared for the direction you’re heading in. That’s why we’re here to help you write the next chapter.

Contact us for assistance with the following career advancement activities.

Resume and cover letter guidance and critique: Ready to start sending your resume out to employers? We’ll give it a seal of approval.
Interview preparation assistance: You got the interview. Now what? Be the best candidate you can be – let us help you prepare.
Job search strategies: Not sure where to start looking or what positions you’re qualified for? Start with us.
Career development planning: Bulk up your resume with additional experiences or skill building. We’ll help you identify available opportunities relevant to your career goals.
LinkedIn critique: Not sure how or why LinkedIn is important? We’ll take a look at your existing page and help you improve it.
Networking guidance: Make the most out of the next networking event you attend. We’ll ensure you’re fully prepared.

Click here for more information on resources and services.

 Academic Advising

Academic Advisors support and guide students as they navigate their career selection, program options, academic planning, and supports for students.  We also teach students about college policies and practices, including: admissions, graduation, transfers and program outcomes. 

To make an Academic Advising appointment, call 403.320.3202 ext 4905

Office hours:  Monday-Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Appointment hours:  Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 3:30 pm. 
Live Chat is another convenient way to connect with a Career and Academic Advisor. Like texting or messaging, you can chat with an advisor to ask quick, general advising questions. Live Chat hours: Monday to Friday 9 – 11 a.m.
Check out the Academic Advising videos on the Lethbridge College YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/lethbridgecollege/videos
Email advisor@lethbridgecollege.ca

Indigenous Services

Discover all that Lethbridge College has to offer our Indigenous students who are pursuing their studies online.

Situated on traditional Blackfoot territory, Lethbridge College recognizes and celebrates the rich heritage and culture of the Blackfoot people. We provide assistance to our First Nations, Métis and Inuit students – from prospective students to alumni – in achieving their career, academic and personal goals. Through our Circle of Services, we support students at every step on their education journey.

A complete outline of services can be found at: https://lethbridgecollege.ca/departments/indigenous-services.

Financial Aid and Awards

We’re here to help make your post-secondary experience more accessible. If you’re looking for some guidance as you plan your future here, we can provide you with plenty of sound financial advice. As an online learner you are entitled to the same access to student loans and financial aid as students learning on campus.

If you would like information on government student loans or around budgeting for school please visit lethbridgecollege.ca/financial-aid. Also, as mentioned in your letter confirming your acceptance into your program you are eligible to apply for our awards program until July 1. Visit lethbridgecollege.ca/awards to complete this single electronic application form.

All information regarding Financial Aid and Awards can be found on our webpage at https://lethbridgecollege.ca/departments/student-awards-and-financial-aid

You need your tech to work so that you can be a successful online learner. We can help you with that.

The Hive

The Hive is your Lethbridge College Canvas Community where you can get up to date information about important dates, events, resources and services, or to chat with community members to find answers to questions you may have throughout your learning journey. Visit often to keep posted on news, opportunities and chances to win cool prizes.

Canvas Support

Students can access 24/7/365 support for all things Canvas by calling the Canvas Support Hotline at 1-866-676-3578 or through live chat. These resources are available on the global navigation menu (the black menu on the left side of this page) by clicking the Help icon.

Digital Learning Support Desk

The Digital Learning Support Desk is available Mon-Fri 8:30 - 4:30 to support online students with Canvas questions, as well as Canvas integrations such as Turnitin and Respondus. Students can also get help with a variety of technologies for teaching and learning, including word processors, spreadsheets, presentation tools, email, file organization and a variety of technologies for teaching and learning. The desk is located in the Buchanan Library, and can also be reached by phone: 1-403-320-3202 ext 5522, or by email at digitallearning@lethbridgecollege.ca

ITS (Information and Technology Services)

Students with technology needs beyond those supported at the Digital Learning Support Desk will be referred to the ITS Help Desk. For information on how to download Office365, changing account passwords, connecting to wifi on campus and more, visit the ITS webpage.

Healthy students are successful students. We are here to help.

Health and Shepell Counselling Services

Health and Shepell Counselling Services provide services to the Lethbridge College community through a team of registered nurses, doctors, psychiatrists, and a counsellor. Our services are available to all students as well as their families. We can also connect you to the most appropriate community support services.

Appointments for Health Services, including doctor, psychiatrist and immunization appointments, can be made on the phone or in person at CE1380. To book an appointment, phone 403-320-3289 Mon – Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. We are closed weekends and holidays as well as during July and August.

Got a quick question? Stop by to speak with a nurse or email us at healthservices@lethbridgecollege.ca.

Shepell Student Support Program

Feeling down, stressed or anxious? Maybe you just need to talk to someone. Shepell offers counselling and services to provide you with the support and skills to work through whatever is troubling you.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact Shepell Student Support (1-855-649-8641)

Shepell’s Student Support Program (SSP) offers immediate, confidential assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year both online and over the phone (1-855-649-8641). A Shepell counsellor is also located on campus in Health and Shepell Counselling Services (CE1380), Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To book your first appointment for any type of Shepell service, call Shepell Student Support at 1-855-649-8641

In addition to on- and off-campus face-to-face counselling, you can access online, video, telephone or app-based counselling to discuss whatever is on your mind. There is also a wide variety of health and wellness information and articles available on the SSP website on topics like health, relationships, living away from home and student life.

Download the My SSP app for quick, convenient access to counselling services as well as general health and wellness information.

Lethbridge College Students' Association (LCSA): Health and Dental Plan

Did you know that you have access to the The LCSA Health and Dental Benefit Plan? The cost of the plan is included in your institutional fees, provided you meet the eligibility enrollment criteria. Any student taking a minimum of 9 credits is automatically enrolled in the program.

Online/Distance Learners are included on the Health and Dental Benefit Plan provided eligibility requirements are met.

The mystudentplan website provides complete detailed Information on items covered under the plan, eligibility, processing claims, adding family, opting out and contact information.

For more information visit the the LCSA Health and Dental Plan site or email lethbridgeplan@mystudentplan.ca (please include your student # in your email)

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