Online Course Student Info Learning at a Distance
CENTER FOR INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

Course and Student Info & PLATO Course Login - wsc.ma.edu/plato

Computer Requirements and Student Computer Knowledge:
Students must have access to a computer with an internet connection and email account. The minimum operating system is Windows 98. All Distant Learning (online) students should have knowledge in the use of basic computer functions including the use of email, sending attachments, the Internet, and basic word processing skills.

Course Information:
All courses begin on the date listed in the catalog. Students must be prepared to login to class on that date or within the first week of class. It takes 24 - 48 hours after registration for students to access entry into their distance learning class. WSC uses Plato/Vista as their course management system. This is the software application used for online classes. Online courses have a Plato/Vista Student Orientation for new Plato/Vista users and as a refresher for previous Plato/Vista users. Please login to wsc.ma.edu/plato for the schedule.

About Online Courses:
You can login to your class or do homework and assignments at any time 24/7. There may be times however, when specific assignments, tests, or other time sensitive homework must be completed within given time constraints. All courses require a textbook. The publishers of some courses require students to purchase an access code. Access codes may be purchased with your new book or purchased separately. Books can be purchased online or onsite by contacting the WSC Bookstore: 413-562-2381.

Getting Connected: Log in to PLATO/Vista
Step 1:
In the URL type: wsc.ma.edu/plato
This will bring you to the Plato/Vista Homepage.
Step 2:
Click on the Login to Plato Button.
Step 3:
Logging Into Your Online Course:
Your Vista/Plato ID is the first letter of your first name with your last name and the last four digits of your CWID - all lower case no spaces. Your initial password will be your campus wide id number including the capital A. 

Support Resources:

Please submit a help ticket if you are experiencing any login or technical difficulties.

Plato/Vista Highly Recommended Course Orientations:

There are Plato/Vista Student Orientation for new Plato/Vista users. Click here to see if your online course offers a Highly Recommended Orientation.

Onsite Help:
If you need onsite assistance with Plato/Vista please call the CIT for individual assistance at 413-572-8130.

Distance Learning at WSC
Supported by the Center for Instructional Technology
Wilson Hall, Room 114
413-572-8130