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Students who are new to
Distance Learning often have the same questions. See if your
question is answered here:
Q. I’m new to
distance learning what will be expected of me?
A. In a
distancce learning course, academic expectations are similar to a
classroom course. Do the reading in the
assigned text, take quizzes and exams, do extra credit if needed,
participate in class discussions, watch
videos, do some outside research, write papers, consult with your
instructor if you need help. The difference is that many of
these activities can be performed at a distance from
the comfort of your own home and computer. For example
you may participate in electronic discussion forums
(like class discussions- but not in real time), do research
(on the Internet), talk to your instructor (e-mail
or phone), discuss topics with other students (electronic forums), take
quizzes (on-line), and submit assignments (electronically).
Detailed guidance is provided on the course Website to assist you and
clarify expectations for every course. Included will be course goals and
objectives, assignments, due dates, grading criteria, extra credit
options, contact numbers, etc.
Q. What
equipment/software will I need?
A.
This varies depending on the particular class. For a Telecourse you
will need access to KOCE Channel 50 on your television, or will need to be
a Cable TV subscriber reached by our educational television channel
commonly called "Edu-Cable" in Orange County. While not required you will
probably also want E-mail access if you plan on submitting your quizzes
online, want to correspond with your instructor electronically, or want to
do certain extra credit activities (though you may also use U.S. Mail).
For Web courses
you will need at very minimum a 90 mhz multimedia computer with a 56K
modem and a hook-up to the World-Wide-Web. An ideal system would be a
Pentium speed 350 mhz or faster machine with a 56K modem or DSL connection
and a direct Internet account. You will also need an e-mail address with
the ability to send and receive messages. It is important to be able to
use either the latest version of Netscape or Internet Explorer as your
Internet browser. While America Online will provide some Internet access,
direct Internet accounts are preferable such as those available from
Earthlink, GTE, Pacific Bell, and others. Some course content is available
(but not required) by streaming video. For this you will need a “plug-in”
(a small software program) from Real Networks. This player for viewing and
listening to streaming audio/video files may
be downloaded and installed on your computer for free by visiting the site
noted on the course Web page.
Q. What if I
have a problem with my computer or equipment?
A. While the college
cannot provide detailed help with personal computer problems, free
technical referral and assistance is available. Since we are familiar with
common technical problems distance learning students may encounter, we may
be able to help you with a modem problem, an Internet provider difficulty,
or at least refer you to a source for assistance. Call (714) 241-6304 for
telephone call-back assistance.
Q. What if I don't
have my own computer. Could I still take a Distance Learning Class?
A. If you do not have
personal computer equipment, have a slow system, or have a computer
problem during the semester, it is
possible for you to come to the Coastline Garden Grove Center Information
Commons, or to one of the College's other Area Centers to access the class
on a computer at that location. Additionally most libraries now have
public access to the Internet which would allow you to take these online
classes. Please consult the Distance Learning Dept. if you have additional
questions about access.
Q. Will I have to
come to campus?
A. In general, No. All
coursework can be conducted over the Internet via the World-Wide-Web or
with a combination of media materials. However, one
midterm and one final exam will require onsite
attendance and photo I.D. If you cannot come to the local test site
in Orange County, you may contact the Distance
learning Testing Office to make arrangements for a proctor in
your local area (student are notified of any courses
that require onsite activities).
Q. How can I
contact my Instructor?
A. The
instructor is available by e-mail, during scheduled office hours by
phone/voicemail, and by scheduled appointment
for personal visits. The instructor will also monitor the class bulletin
board forum. At other times the Distance
learning Office staff may be able to help answer routine questions.
Q. What if I
have to miss a class?
A.
Well, with web classes you don’t have to worry! You may work ahead, or
catch up a little as you need to. While
a general weekly timeline is provided to help you pace your time, your
schedule is really your own. Just be careful
not to miss submission deadlines for assignments or fall behind in your
reading. All students keeping pace and doing
conscientious work should do well in the class.
Q. Can I order
books at a Distance Learning?
A.
Yes, the
Coastline Bookstore (714 241-6101) offers a full range of online,
mail, phone, and fax services. Be sure to order early to avoid
shipping delays at the start of class.
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