Center for Distance Learning

Center for Distance Learning Statement of Commitment

The Center for Distance Learning's goal is to support students and faculty in online, hybrid, and face-to-face courses to promote student success. We provide accessible resources, guidance, and a supportive environment to help you thrive in any learning format.

Our Commitment to Students:
- Access for All: Equal learning opportunities, wherever you are
- Engaging Courses: Stay connected with instructors, peers, and content
- Comprehensive Support: Academic, technical, and emotional help when you need it
- Focused on Success: Data-driven strategies to remove barriers and help you succeed

Live "On-Demand" Zoom Support for Students

Monday & Tuesday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Wednesday & Thursday 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
* Hours are subject to change.

Zoom Link

Orientation to Online Learning (OLRN)

To have a successful transition into your online coursework, first-time online students are required to complete the Orientation to Online Learning (OLRN 0001) course. This free, non-credit course is designed to familiarize students with the online platform and ensure a smooth start. Registration is conducted in the same manner as for other courses, and the course can be completed at your own pace within approximately 1-2 hours.

Register for Fall 2025 Orientation to Online Learning (OLRN)
Course: OLRN 0001.004 | CRN: 29320
Course: OLRN 0001.013 | CRN: 22826
Course: OLRN 0001.021 | CRN: 45613

How to Register for the Orientation to Online Learning-OLRN

The CLD offers a variety of services, including:

- Support with completing the "Orientation to Online Learning" (OLRN) course
- Navigation and academic support for Canvas
- Conducts outreach, Micro-workshops, and participates in college events
- Access to a student computer lab
- And additional resources and services

Click Here: Additional Resources

The Center for Distance Learning Calendar of Events for 2025

Coming soon.

Center for Distance Learning Contact Information
Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Sutton Learning Center, Room 212
Helpdesk Phone: 210-486-2239
Email: spc-distance@alamo.edu

Helpful Information for Students

SACSCOC Student Complaint Process: Students who file a complaint with the institutional accreditor should follow the SACSCOC Complaint Process.
NC-SARA Complaint Process: Students may also file a complaint through NC-SARA.

Student Online Resources

Respondus LockDown Browser

Respondus LockDown Browser™ is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within Instructure Canvas. When students use Respondus LockDown Browser they are unable to print, copy, go to another URL, or access other applications. Respondus is available for both Windows and Mac.

Repondus LockDown Browser Installation

Brainfuse - 24/7 online tutoring

With Brainfuse, students experience online tutoring that is simple, fast and always available. Students connect to live educators from any computer that has Internet access, with no special software installation or equipment required. Students work one-on-one, in real-time with a tutor, communicating using a virtual whiteboard technology.

In your Canvas Course:
          Open your course
Click on the Brainfuse OnlineTutoring Link on the left-hand side.

Creating your BioSig-ID profile

Recent Federal legislation requires that all online courses have a system implemented to verify students. St. Philip's College is committed to preserving the academic integrity of its courses and has implemented a unique technology from a company called Biometric Signature ID (BSI).

Protecting your security and preventing identity theft are very important.

Click: BioSig Video Link to view the BioSig ID process. If the video does not appear or will not play, check to see if your browser is blocking the content.

Access to the BioSig signature is available in your Canvas courses and in the Orientation to Online Learning (OLRN) course.

Check your computer