Your guide to online learning
In Pre-College Online, you’ll join students from around the world and accomplished professional teaching artists in a flexible virtual program. From digital resources and ways to stay connected, to tips for time management and self-care, learn how to make the most of your experience this summer and maximize your learning in the online environment.
Visit Campus Link
Campus Link is your go-to source for virtual resources accessible throughout the program. These resources include supplies available for online ordering and delivery from the RISD Store, the RISD Museum’s online collection, the Nature Lab’s digital 3D specimen gallery, and more! Visiting Campus Link regularly will also help you stay up to date on student events and news stories throughout the summer.
Stay connected
Though you may not be attending class in person, there are still many ways you can connect to your instructors and peers throughout the summer.
Check your Canvas inbox regularly for instructor announcements. It’s important to read all messages from your instructors, and also keep them informed of anything impacting your participation. All communication with instructors and teaching assistants will take place during Zoom sessions or through Canvas (not through email). You will also communicate and connect with your classmates in Canvas discussion boards, where you’ll share work and peer feedback.
Connect with the larger RISD Pre-College community on our social media! Share your artwork and progress throughout the program by tagging @risd_precollege, and be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Manage your time
Each of your two courses meet once per week for three-hour live sessions, for a total of six hours. Additionally, you can expect to spend about seven hours outside of class completing your weekly assignments for each course, for a total of 14 hours of homework per week. In all, you should set aside about 20 hours per week for the program.
Plan ahead for the time commitment! Set aside the proper time you'll need to focus and complete the program successfully. It’s recommended that you begin your homework within 24 hours while the directions are fresh in mind. If you wait until you are ready, you might never get it done!
Maintain wellness and support systems
One of the significant advantages of online learning is the ability for students to keep their current support systems in place while engaging in college-level learning and expectations. This includes personal well-being, both physical and mental, which may include feelings of insecurity while adjusting to the culture of critique. These and other emotional responses are a completely normal part of maturing and gaining independent creative learning habits. Students and parents should maintain all current, familiar, and local resources, and acquire new support as needed. This can take the form of tutors, mental health practitioners, primary and specialist physicians, and support groups. And don’t forget to practice self-care—make sure you are eating, staying hydrated and getting enough sleep every night. Explore more student support resources.
Consider online safety and etiquette
It’s important to keep in mind safety and privacy when working and communicating in the online space. Protect yourself by keeping all personal and sensitive information private, including contact and login information. Respect other students’ privacy and intellectual property by keeping their personal and sensitive information private, and obtaining permission before sharing anyone’s work. Use a virtual background at all times during your Zoom meetings. Learn more about online etiquette.
Pre-College Online
June 23, 2026