Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why aren’t my classes appearing on Canvas?

Answer: There are several possibilities. Canvas courses are generally available to students on the first day of the semester, but maybe open the week before classes begin or possibly earlier if the instructor is allowing early access to their courses. If the semester has started and you don’t see your Canvas courses, please contact the Online Learning/Canvas Helpdesk as soon as possible. Also keep in mind that if you do not pay your tuition by the required date, you will be dropped from your courses-this includes your Canvas courses! Please bear in mind that not every course you enroll in will have a Canvas component. If your course has a web designation (i.e. web-enhanced, hybrid, or online) then it will likely have a Canvas course component.

Question: What kind of software will I need to complete my Canvas course?

Answer: Basic applications such as word processors, web browsers (these are free), web media players, and plugins (i.e. Flash, Adobe Reader, free PowerPoint viewer, etc…free as well) are recommended. Although a word processor such as Microsoft Word is recommended, any word processor that allows you to save files in Rich Text Format (RTF) should work, as these files are readable by virtually all word processors. Specific information on required Canvas course software can be obtained from your instructor.

Question: What if I’ve been dropped from my Canvas course for non-payment or due to attendance issues or lack of participation? I did a significant amount of work-I plan to re-enroll-will I lose my work?

Answer: Any work you completed in Canvas before you were dropped will return once you officially re-enroll in the course.

Question: Can I just re-enroll by calling the Online Learning/Canvas Helpdesk?

Answer: No. You will need to officially re-enroll in your courses to be added back to any courses you have dropped or any new courses. Online Learning/Canvas Helpdesk staff DO NOT enroll students. The Registration Office can help you with the enrollment process (636-584-6901).

Question: Do I have to come to orientation? How can I tell?

Answer: Some online and hybrid courses require students to come to campus for course-specific orientations. Other courses may utilize online orientations. This is decided by your instructor and can be found by viewing the specific course information in the online course schedule. If you have concerns or questions about the orientation be sure to contact your instructor as they can provide you with detailed information.

Question: I need some help using Canvas?

Answer: Use the Canvas Online Orientation and view the student tutorials and help files to familiarize yourself with Canvas and Canvas-related tasks. You can also call the Online Learning/Canvas Helpdesk (636-584-6609) or email onlinehelp@eastcentral.edu if you have questions about Canvas or online learning in general.

Question: Why am I required to take a proctored assessment for my online course?

Answer: Some instructors and programs require proctored testing to help verify your identity and maintain academic integrity for high value exams and assignments.

Question: Where can I take my proctored assessments?

Answer: Proctored assessments may be required to be taken in a testing center, through an online testing service (Proctorio), or online meeting platform such as Zoom, Teams, etc…this is at the discretion of the instructor and/or specific department’s requirements.

Question: Will I need to pay a fee for proctored testing?

Answer: Currently, there are no additional fees for proctored assessments at ECC locations or ECC exams taken through the Proctorio online proctoring system.