The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

What is CUEA eLearning?

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa eLearning portal is your digital gateway to academic success. It provides an integrated environment where you can:

• Access interactive learning modules and lecture slides
• Join collaborative forums and research groups
• Submit assignments and projects securely
• Engage in online examinations and quizzes
• Track your academic progress in real-time

Note: This platform is managed by the ODeL Directorate to support blended and distance learning.

System Requirements

For optimal performance, ensure your system meets these requirements:

Warning: Pick any device that well suits and convenient for you.

Step-by-Step Access

To access the CUEA E-learning portal:

• Open your internet browser (Chrome is recommended)
• Go to: https://elearning.cuea.edu
• You will land on the login page or homepage with announcements and options
• Bookmark this page for future access

Tip: Always type the URL directly or use your bookmark to avoid phishing sites.

First Time Access

If you're accessing the portal for the first time:

• Ensure you have received your login credentials from the university
• Follow the login process detailed in the next section
• Take a tour of the platform to familiarize yourself with the interface
• Update your profile with your current contact information

Success Tip: Complete your profile setup before starting your courses to ensure you don't miss important notifications.

Finding Course Materials

To access learning materials in your course:

• Navigate to your course homepage
• Look for sections labeled "Materials", "Resources", "Readings", or "Weekly Content"
• Click on the relevant week/module to expand it
• Click on any resource to access it

Note: Materials may be organized by week, topic, or module depending on how your instructor has structured the course.

Types of Materials and How to Access Them

The portal supports various types of learning materials:

Compatibility: Ensure you have appropriate software installed (PDF reader, media player, etc.) to access all materials. Some content may require specific browser plugins.

Downloading and Organizing Materials

To download and manage course materials:

• Right-click on the resource and select "Save link as" to download
• Some materials may have a download button or icon next to them
• Create a folder structure on your computer organized by course and week
• Keep backups of important materials on cloud storage or external drives

Tip: Download materials when you have a stable internet connection to avoid incomplete downloads, especially for large files.

Finding and Understanding Assignments

To locate your course assignments:

• Navigate to your course page
• Look for the "Assignments" section in the course navigation
• Review all assignments and their due dates
• Click on an assignment to view detailed instructions, rubrics, and submission requirements

Important: Carefully read all instructions, formatting requirements, and submission guidelines before starting your assignment. Late submissions may be penalized or not accepted.

Submission Process

To submit an assignment:

• Click on the assignment you want to submit
• Click the "Submit Assignment" button
• Choose your submission method:
  • File Upload: Select files from your device
  • Online Text: Type or paste your response directly
  • Media Recording: Record audio or video directly
• Add any comments for your instructor (if needed)
• Click "Submit" to finalize your submission

Note: Some assignments may allow multiple attempts, while others allow only one submission. Check the assignment details carefully.

After Submission

Once you've submitted an assignment:

• You will receive a confirmation email with submission details
• You can view your submission on the assignment page
• Some assignments may show submission status (submitted, graded, etc.)
• For group assignments, ensure all group members understand their roles

Best Practice: Keep copies of all submitted work and submission confirmations until you receive your final grade for the course.

Preparation Before a Quiz/Exam

Before attempting any assessment:

• Check the quiz/exam schedule and time limits
• Ensure you have a stable internet connection
• Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications
• Have any permitted materials ready (calculator, notes, etc.)
• Test your computer's functionality (keyboard, mouse, etc.)

Important: Some quizzes may have restricted access times. Note the open and close dates to avoid missing assessments.

Taking the Quiz/Exam

During the assessment:

• Navigate to the quiz/exam from your course page
• Read all instructions carefully before beginning
• Note the time limit and question navigation
• Answer questions according to the specified format:
  • Multiple choice: Select one or more correct answers
  • True/False: Choose the correct statement
  • Essay: Type your response in the provided box
  • Matching: Drag and drop or select corresponding pairs
• Save your answers periodically if the option is available
• Submit your quiz when completed

Note: Some quizzes may not allow backtracking to previous questions. Pay attention to the navigation restrictions.

Technical Issues and Special Considerations

If you encounter problems:

• Don't refresh the page during a quiz unless absolutely necessary
• If you lose connection, try to reconnect immediately
• Contact your instructor immediately if you experience technical difficulties
• For timed exams, the timer may continue running even if you lose connection

Strategy: For essay questions, consider composing your answers in a word processor first, then copying them into the quiz to avoid potential loss of work.

Using Discussion Forums

To participate in course discussions:

• Navigate to the "Forums" or "Discussions" section in your course
• Browse through available discussion topics
• Click on a topic to view existing posts
• To contribute:
  • Click "Reply" to respond to an existing post
  • Click "Start New Thread" to create a new discussion
  • Use the formatting toolbar to format your post
  • Attach files if necessary
• Submit your post

Note: Some forums may be graded or required for course participation. Check your course requirements.

Private Messaging

To send private messages:

• Click on the "Messages" icon in the top navigation bar
• Click "Compose New Message"
• Select recipients from your course participants
• Type your message and add attachments if needed
• Click "Send"

Etiquette: Use appropriate language and tone in all communications. Remember that academic communication should remain professional, even in informal settings.

Notification Settings

To manage your forum and message notifications:

• Click on your profile picture and select "Preferences"
• Go to the "Notification Preferences" section
• Choose how you want to be notified about:
  • New forum posts
  • Replies to your posts
  • Private messages
  • Announcements
• Select between email, portal notifications, or both
• Save your preferences

Tip: Enable notifications for important course discussions to stay engaged with your class community and not miss important updates.

Self-Service Password Reset

If you've forgotten your password:

• Go to the CUEA E-learning portal login page
• Click on the "Forgot Password" link
• Enter your registered email address or student ID
• Check your email for a password reset link
• Click the link in the email (it will expire after a limited time)
• Create a new strong password following the requirements:
  • Minimum 8 characters
  • At least one uppercase letter
  • At least one number
  • At least one special character
• Confirm your new password and save the changes

Note: If you don't receive the password reset email within 15 minutes, check your spam folder or try resending it.

Contacting Support for Password Issues

If self-service reset doesn't work:

• Contact the CUEA IT Help Desk during business hours
• Have your student ID number ready for verification
• Be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity
• Visit the IT office in person if required, bringing your student ID card

Security: Never share your password with anyone, including university staff. IT support will never ask for your password.

Password Best Practices

To maintain account security:

• Use a unique password for your CUEA account
• Change your password periodically (every 3-6 months)
• Don't use easily guessable information (names, birthdays, etc.)
• Consider using a password manager to securely store your passwords
• Enable two-factor authentication if available
• Always log out after using shared computers

Tip: Create a strong but memorable password by using a passphrase (a sequence of words) with numbers and symbols, like "CUEA@2025#Success".

Time Management Strategies

To succeed in online learning:

• Create a schedule: Set specific times for studying each course
• Check the portal regularly: Aim for at least once daily
• Start early: Begin assignments well before due dates
• Use a calendar: Record all important dates and deadlines
• Break tasks into chunks: Tackle large assignments in smaller pieces
• Minimize distractions: Find a quiet study space and limit interruptions

Note: Online learning requires more self-discipline than traditional classes. Developing strong time management habits is crucial for success.

Technical Preparation

Ensure smooth learning experience:

• Backup your work: Save important files in multiple locations
• Keep software updated: Browser, plugins, and operating system
• Have a backup plan: Alternative internet access options
• Test technology early: Verify everything works before deadlines
• Bookmark important pages: Portal login, course pages, support
• Use supported browsers: Chrome or Firefox work best with the portal

Important: Technical issues are generally not accepted as excuses for missed deadlines. Plan for potential problems by submitting work early when possible.

Effective Online Learning Strategies

Maximize your online learning experience:

• Active participation: Engage in discussions and ask questions
• Regular review: Revisit materials periodically for better retention
• Collaborative learning: Form study groups with classmates
• Seek clarification: Don't hesitate to ask instructors for help
• Apply learning: Connect course concepts to real-world situations
• Self-assessment: Regularly evaluate your understanding and progress