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What are
online courses?
An online course is one delivered over the Internet
using web pages, e-mail, online discussion forums, etc. OTC
offers a selection of full-credit college courses over the
Internet as a flexible alternative to traditional, on-campus
classes.
Online courses cover content as their traditional counterparts
on campus. Class sizes are limited so that instructors can
provide the same level of personal interactions as they do
in the traditional classroom. This personal interaction is
accomplished using e-mail and online discussion forums.
How do online
courses work?
Students “attend” online courses by accessing
the Angel class web site and completing assignments according
to the class schedule. Students communicate regularly with
the instructor and classmates via e-mail and online discussion
forums.
OTC’s online courses are not self-paced, independent
study courses. Students are required to complete assignments
according to the class schedule, to maintain regular contact
with the instructor, and to participate in online discussions.
What
skills should I process in order to be successful in an online
course?
Students taking online courses should be skillful in basic computer operations, use of email and Internet researching since the entire course will be delivered over the Internet.
Taking a course over the Internet requires the ability
to work independently and to devise your own regular schedule
for “attending” class and completing assignments.
Students learning online have a greater responsibility for
their own success than students in traditional classroom settings.
It is important that you have the self-discipline and motivation
to work on a flexible schedule without getting behind. Students
must be prepared to dedicate about 15 hours a week to their
online course if they wish to be successful.
Do
I have to come to campus?
Generally, NO. Students are required to complete the final examination on campus or proctored at a pre-approved location. Your instructor will inform you of other required campus meetings.
You may also make an appointment to see an on-campus instructor
or drop by during his/her posted office hours. You may find
it more convenient to use e-mail or telephone.
Do I have
to be online at a certain time each day (or week)?
Some instructors require students to be online during specific
periods of time to complete exams of participate in group
work. However, you are generally required to keep up with
the class schedule and to complete assignments before specified
due dates. Some classes may have several due dates each week;
others may require work once per week. You can choose the
time of day or night you want to log on to the Internet to
work on an assignment, but you must complete it and submit
it by the specified date and time.
How
do I register for an online course?
You may register for online courses through GVTC (http://www.gvtc.org)
if you are a transient student. If you are a campus student,
you should meet with your advisor.
How much
does it cost?
Online courses cost the same as traditional OTC courses—they
are priced according to the number of credit hours. Credit
hours are listed in the syllabus for each online class. Financial
aid may be available. Contact the Financial Aid Director in
Student Affairs for more information.
Can
I “visit” an online class?
No. You may get more information about an online class by
contacting the instructor or the Coordinator of Distance Education.
What if
I need technical help?
If you need technical assistance accessing or logging into
an online course, contact the course instructor or Amanda
Morris Dryden, Coordinator of Distance Education, at amorris@okefenokeetech.edu.
Many technical problems have to do with the student’s
particular Internet Service Provider (ISP) or with his/her
own hardware or software. In most cases, students will have
to contact their ISP for technical support. OTC cannot resolve
problems with your own hardware, software, or Internet service.
If you experience major technical difficulties with your
computer, you may come to campus and use the computer lab
or the library to complete your coursework.
What
student services and resources are available?
All student services and students resources are available
to online students.
Please visit the OTC home page about resources available to
students.
How
quickly will my online instructor respond to my questions?
The course syllabus lists the online office hours for each
instructor. Instructors will respond immediately during the
posted office hours.
What if I have more questions about online courses?
Please contact Amanda Morris Dryden, Coordinator of Distance Education. Phone 912.287.5851 or email amorris@okefenokeetech.edu
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