In this step we will go over "a checklist" to prepare you for your first class. In the previous steps you selected this class and made the financial arrangements.
Download the Syllabus: There is a link on the Atlantic Region Home Page called Syllabi. This link will take you to a Web page link for Norfolk and Washington syllabi. Click on the appropriate site, and you will see a list of the courses being taught. Right click on the appropriate course number and either download the syllabus to a disk or open it in a new window - then print. Verify the following from the syllabus: (1) Location, date and time. (2) Required text books. (3) Whether or not this is a Blackboard supported class (4) Pre-class readings and knowledge requirements. Syllabi
Order Books: Troy University uses MBS Books as our primary book supplier. There is a link on the Atlantic Region Home Page called MBS Books. This link will take you the MBS secure site. After choosing your site (Norfolk or Washington) you will get a course list. Select the appropriate course, and it will confirm the required text. From this point you can order and select your text. There is a Help Desk which provides all of the necessary information about using MBS services. You are not required to use MBS. If you decide to use other sources, you need to to insure they have the correct edition of the text and that they have a shipping and return policy that will meet your needs. MBS Books.
Pre-class Knowledge: Some classes may require that you have basic knowledge of SPSS or Excel. Almost all classes require that you have basic knowledge of MS Word, MS PowerPoint, Library Research, and APA Style skills. Prior to the first class you should complete the tutorials available on the Student Orientation Web page.
Base Access: Almost all of your classes will be conducted on a military base. If you are active duty military, retired military, a DOD Civilian or a dependent of an active duty or retired military member, your current ID card will provide access. The exception is NASA, where all personnel must obtain a special ID. Instructions for Base Access are located on the "Base Directions" for each installation. Until you are familiar with each base, recommend you contact the appropriate Site Representative to confirm access procedures. Directions. Representatives
Blackboard: Some courses use Blackboard as lecture support. If this is the case, it will be stated on your Syllabus. When you register for one of these classes in Web Express, you are automatically enrolled in Blackboard. In most cases you will need to access Blackboard prior to your first class. A tutorial on Blackboard is linked from the Student Orientation Web page or can be found here.
Do the Required Reading: Because Troy University operates on an accelerated schedule, you will be required to read one or two chapters prior to attending your first class. For weekend courses you will be expected to complete approximately 1/3 of all the readings.
