How does an online class work?
To the extent possible, our online classes are exactly the same as our residential classes; the major difference is the delivery method. Most online classes are taught by the same faculty members who teach our residential classes, they use the same text books, give the same assignments, and use the same examinations. All online classes follow the same academic calendar as the residential classes. Online classes have the same start and end dates as residential classes. You need high speed internet access. On the first day of the semester, you will receive an e-mail from the director of distance education, with your login instructions. You will log in to your class, where you will find the syllabus and a list of assignments to be completed. Online classes are organized just like residential classes, with weekly assignments. There are weekly reading assignments, weekly lectures, and weekly online forums with other students.
When you register, you will receive an email WITHIN 24 hours that will tell you the URL location for the class content. There you will find a step by step guide for reading the class material and completing any activities. You will also receive worksheets via email. When you satisfactorily complete the worksheets and return them to us, we will review your work and issue you a certificate.
Instead of attending lectures on campus, online students learn off campus at their convenience. Some teachers require face-to-face meetings (most often orientation or final exam), but many courses are completely online. Learning materials vary from class to class, but may include textbooks, video demonstrations, PowerPoint presentations, interactive lessons, and Web resources. Learning activities may include writing papers, posting comments or essays to online discussion forums, completing individual or group projects, and taking quizzes. While students can choose when and where they work, there are usually deadlines for homework and exams. Students interact with their teacher and classmates via web discussion forums, e-mail, chat sessions, and phone calls.
