Online Learning Tools + Support

RMCAD has gone to great lengths to ensure you have access to all the tools and support you'll need to succeed in your online college career.

The GearBox

RMCAD’s GearBox allows you to purchase your computer, software and additional hardware components all in one package (or in separate units, based on your needs). These products are available to you at a considerable savings from market value. And the best part is, they are still yours after you graduate! Requirements vary depending on the program.

Each degree program for Campus, Hybrid, and Online students at RMCAD has specific technology requirements. The GearBox is just one option for meeting these requirements. All students have the option to purchase hardware and software from other sources.

The GearBox contains all the tools you’ll need to succeed as a RMCAD student now, and as a working art and design professional after graduation.

The Dome

The Dome is your gateway to all things RMCAD. In addition to providing access to your courses, grades and academic profile, this is also the place to go to get connected with the College community.

Features Include:

Spotlight articles covering RMCAD people and events
Quick access to email, technical support and student resources
Important announcements and timely updates
Faculty and staff directory
Forms, documents, calendar and more

The Learning Management System (LMS)

Dashboard

Your course-specific dashboard provides all announcements and activities relating to a specific class. Use the tabs to navigate within a class or throughout the LMS. Email your Instructor with one easy click.

Activities

The Activities tab is where you’ll find all course materials and assignments, in order, so you can see what’s next on your to-do list and plan accordingly. Courses are 8 weeks long and each week begins with an overview of learning objectives and student expectations. The weekly overview is followed by presentations, discussions and exercises comprised of text, images, videos and interactive opportunities - all designed to support and effectively convey the current topic.

Discussions

Every online course contains a Discussion Forum, providing learners an extended opportunity to interact with one another in an Instructor-facilitated dialogue that focuses on key themes. The Instructor’s role is to offer feedback, substantiate comments, and channel conversations to deepen students’ understanding of course concepts.

My Classmates

Under the My Classmates tab, you can easily connect with your fellow students by viewing their profiles and contact information.

CritiqueZone

The critique is a long-standing tradition in the visual arts, and RMCAD’s CritiqueZone recreates a collaborative studio right on your laptop. Many of your exercises - sketches, outlines, images, etc. — will be uploaded to this interactive forum for evaluation and feedback. Sharing your work with your Instructor and peers will help you advance your technical skills while simultaneously developing the theoretical components of your craft.

Support

Just because you’re not with us in person doesn’t mean you’re alone. Online students can reach out to faculty members or Student Learning Center tutors at any time via live chat, video conferencing, email and phone. For technical difficulties, RMCADGO Support is standing by to answer questions and walk you through problems. With online learning at RMCAD, you'll never be stranded in cyber space. You are an integral part of our community.