Consistent with its mission to provide educational programs to all those who benefit, many of Laredo College's courses are available through online instruction in the form of fully online, hybrid/blended, or videoconference courses. Online courses provide greater flexibility and require students to be self-disciplined and to possess time management and technical skills. 

eLearning & Instructional Innovation Center

The eLearning & Instructional Innovation Center at Laredo College provides instructional and technical support to maximize student access to online instruction and is responsible for the administration of Laredo College's learning management system, Canvas. The eLearning & Instructional Innovation Center's website offers helpful information and a list of resources to support online students. 

Canvas Learning Management System

Canvas is used to deliver online content for face-to-face, hybrid, and online courses. Students can access Canvas through the PASPort Student Portal. 

Technology Requirements for Online Courses 

A high-speed internet connection is suggested for best results when accessing Canvas. The internet browser is an important factor to ensure online courses work adequately during the semester. Canvas requires the latest two versions of every browser release; however, we highly recommend that the browser's flash plug-ins and internet browser be updated to the latest version. To avoid technical issues, we recommend students to use Firefox, Google Chrome, or Safari. Students will also be required to have a webcam to take online exams from home.

Virtual Backpack

The Virtual Backpack is a free, on-demand, self-paced orientation course that helps you to understand online classes and provides the information you need to start your online learning experience on the right note. The Virtual Backpack Online Student Orientation is open to all current and prospective students and covers topics on how to log into and navigate your course, customize your account, complete assignments and tests, and more. Access the Virtual Backpack today!  

Registration for Online Courses 

Students may register for online, hybrid and videoconference courses through PASPort  eLearning courses adhere to LC's admission policies, testing requirements, and follow the academic calendar. A $20 per semester credit hour fee will be charged to students who enroll in an online, hybrid or videoconference course to cover the costs associated with managing, maintaining, and upgrading Canvas and other online services. Students who desire to register for eLearning courses will be able to find them in PASPort using section identifiers as shown below.

• E01 – E99 (Online courses) Ex. ENGL 1301E01
• MY1 – MY9 (Main Campus Hybrid/Blended courses) Ex. KINE 1306MY1
• SY1 – SY9 (South Campus Hybrid/Blended courses) Ex. PHYS 1302SY1
• LY1 – LY9 (Hybrid/Blended Lab) Ex. BIOL 1108LY1
• MV1 – MV9 (Main Campus Videoconference courses) Ex. GOVT 2305MV1
• SV1 – SV9 (South Campus Videoconference courses) Ex. ENGL 1301SV1

Authenticating the Identity of Students Enrolled in Distance Education Courses 

On the first day of class, students access their course in Canvas by logging into the secure Personnel and Student Portal (PASPort) using the username assigned to them on their admissions acceptance letter. It is important that students create strong passwords, and do not share their login credentials. PASPort accounts are designated for the use of the student that was approved ONLY. Students are encouraged to become familiar with the Security section of the college Internet Usage Policy.

• Each student, employee, or guest with a PASPort account shall be responsible for all use of the account.
• Accounts shall be for use by a single individual - the person for whom the account was approved.
• An employee or student shall not share or give his or her assigned login or password information to anyone.

Students are urged not to attempt to read or copy files belonging to others or attempt to decrypt or translate encrypted material unless the files have been made accessible by the owner, or appropriate authorization has been obtained.

Testing for Online Courses 

Students taking online courses can test from any location and are not required to come to campus. All online courses require the use of Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, a program that records students while testing. Students can download a free copy of the Respondus Monitor program from the eLearning & Instructional Innovation Center website. The LockDown Browser/Monitor program requires that each student have a computer with a webcam and microphone to record the online exam session. The webcam can be part of your computer or it can be connected to the computer using a USB cable. View a short video to get a basic understanding of the webcam feature of Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor. Students also have the option to come on-campus to take a test. The available locations for on-campus testing are the eLearning Center and the Center for Learning, Academic, and Student Success.  For assistance with downloading, installing, or taking a test with LockDown Browser/Monitor, contact the eLearning & Instructional Innovation Center staff at 956.721.5880 or complete an eHelp Desk request.

Computer labs available by appointment.

Student eHelp Desk 

The eHelp Desk is a self-service portal where students can get help with their technical issues related to Canvas and online classes. Technical support is available after regular office hours and on weekends. You may also call 956.721.5880 to request help during our regular business hours.

Access to Student Services and Resources 

Online students have access to all academic, learning, engagement and student services and resources offered by the College. Students are encouraged to visit the website for more information about services and resources that can be delivered in an online format or via phone.