Submitting an assignment on Top Hat is a straightforward process, achievable through either your computer's web browser or the Top Hat mobile application. It's crucial to remember that for your submissions to be recorded and graded, the content must be explicitly assigned in Homework mode by your instructor or actively presented during a live class session.
Top Hat provides a seamless experience for students to interact with various types of assignments, ensuring that your responses are captured accurately.
Submitting Your Assignment via Web Browser
Using a web browser offers a comprehensive view of your assignments and is often preferred for more complex tasks.
Step-by-Step Submission
- Log In: Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari) and navigate to the Top Hat login page. Enter your credentials to access your account.
- Select Your Course: Once logged in, you'll see your dashboard listing all your enrolled courses. Click on the relevant course to enter.
- Locate the Assignment:
- Assignments assigned in Homework mode will typically appear in a dedicated "Assignments" or "Homework" section, or directly within the module where the content is organized.
- For content presented during class, the assignment will appear on your screen as your instructor presents it.
- Complete the Assignment: Engage with the content by answering questions, participating in polls, or completing other assigned tasks. Top Hat supports various question types, including multiple choice, true/false, short answer, and click-on-target questions.
- Submit Your Work:
- For most interactive questions, your answers are often saved automatically or submitted immediately upon selection.
- For multi-part assignments or those with a dedicated submission button, ensure you click "Submit" or "Done" to finalize your answers.
- Verify Submission: Look for a confirmation message on your screen. You may also be able to review your submitted answers, depending on your instructor's settings.
Submitting Your Assignment via Mobile Application
The Top Hat mobile app (available for iOS and Android devices) provides convenience, allowing you to submit assignments on the go.
Step-by-Step Submission
- Open the App: Launch the Top Hat application on your smartphone or tablet.
- Log In: If prompted, enter your Top Hat username and password.
- Navigate to Your Course: From the app's home screen, tap on the course where the assignment is located.
- Find the Assignment:
- Similar to the web browser, look for assignments listed under a "Homework" or "Assignments" section within your course.
- If your instructor is presenting content live, the assignment will appear on your device as it's displayed in class.
- Answer the Questions: Use the app's interface to respond to the assignment questions.
- Confirm Submission: Ensure your answers are saved or explicitly submitted. The app typically provides clear indicators, such as a checkmark or confirmation message, once a response is successfully sent.
Key Considerations for Graded Submissions
Understanding how your submissions are recorded is vital for ensuring your work counts towards your grade.
The Importance of Assignment Mode
- Homework Mode: When content is assigned in Homework mode, you can complete it outside of live class sessions, usually within a specified deadline. Submissions made in this mode are automatically recorded for grading.
- In-Class Presentation: If an instructor presents content during class (e.g., polls, attendance questions, interactive slides), your responses at that time are recorded.
- Review Mode: If content is set to "Review" mode, it's primarily for practice and self-study, and submissions in this mode are generally not recorded for grades. Always confirm the assignment mode with your instructor if you are unsure.
Best Practices for Submitting Assignments
- Check Due Dates: Always be aware of the submission deadlines set by your instructor. Late submissions may not be accepted or might incur penalties.
- Stable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection when submitting to prevent data loss or submission errors.
- Save Progress: For longer assignments, check if Top Hat automatically saves your progress. If not, try to complete and submit the assignment in one sitting, or consult your instructor for guidance on saving partial work.
- Confirm Submission: Always look for a clear confirmation that your assignment has been successfully submitted. If in doubt, try to verify through your gradebook or by checking if the assignment status has changed.
Troubleshooting Common Submission Issues
If you encounter difficulties, consider these steps:
- Refresh Your Page/App: Sometimes a simple refresh can resolve temporary glitches.
- Check Internet Connection: Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network.
- Clear Browser Cache: If using a web browser, clearing your cache and cookies might resolve loading issues.
- Update App: Make sure your Top Hat mobile app is updated to the latest version.
- Contact Instructor: If problems persist, reach out to your instructor immediately. They may be able to verify your submission status or offer alternative solutions.
- Top Hat Support: For technical issues beyond your instructor's scope, contact Top Hat's support team.
Comparison of Submission Methods
| Feature | Web Browser Submission | Mobile App Submission |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Access from any computer with internet | Access from smartphone or tablet |
| Screen Size | Ideal for detailed content and multiple tabs | Convenient for quick responses and on-the-go tasks |
| Input Method | Keyboard and mouse/trackpad | Touchscreen, on-screen keyboard |
| Connectivity | Requires stable internet connection | Requires stable internet or cellular data connection |
| Visibility | Comprehensive view of course material | Optimized for smaller screens |
| Primary Use | Detailed assignments, essays, in-depth problem-solving | Quick polls, attendance, short answers, in-class participation |
By understanding these methods and best practices, you can effectively submit all your assignments on Top Hat and ensure your academic success.
