Orientation to eLearning at Virginia Tech

Online Courses (syn. web-based courses, internet courses)

Description |  Requirements |  Timetables |  Expectations |  Success Strategies |  Enrollment

Description

Example of an online credit course website

Online credit courses at Virginia Tech award one to three regular, college credits that are generally transferable to other colleges or universities. These credits do not differ from credits awarded in a regular face-to-face course. Students enrolled in online credit courses are graded on an A-F scale, and they can obtain a university transcript showing grades and credit hours at the end of the semester. These courses may apply towards a university degree (check with an academic advisor for confirmation and planning).

In most cases, online courses are asynchronous (students and instructors do not need to participate at the same time). Students access a course website to engage in the course. In most cases, they can take the course from anywhere in the world and they never need to meet in a face-to-face setting. Instructors may require actions on certain dates, but students can usually participate according to their own schedules (although see the time lines section for further explanation). Courses using Centra software have specific meeting times, so check each course description before enrolling.

A course website may contain the following types of information: instructions for readings, announcements, syllabus, assignments, question and answer sessions, access to course materials, online quizzes or exams, etc. Chat rooms and threaded discussions are common. Online courses may or may not be supplemented by print material (e.g., textbooks) or additional software. Online courses are usually supplemented by email contact with the instructor and other enrolled students. Most assignments are submitted by email or some other electronic format.

Requirements

To participate in an online course, you need:

You may need:

  • to download or purchase additional software (your instructor will tell you)
  • to use software such as Centra or Real Player. Both have certain hardware and bandwidth requirements
  • to access the proxy server if you are off campus and can't connect to certain library materials
  • to obtain textbooks or other print materials not available online.

As in any course, the course format is decided upon by the instructor. It is always wise to check to make sure your situation fits the course requirements. Some specific requirements are listed in the individual course details. Although most Virginia Tech online courses can be taken from anywhere in the world, there are several that require students to attend one session on the Virginia Tech campus, on Centra, or to have exams proctored in a specific location.

Timetables

The Virginia Tech Virginia Tech academic year consists of two semesters (Fall and Spring) and three different Summer options. All courses begin on the first day of the scheduled term and end on the last day of the scheduled term. Within that time frame, your instructor will provide details of other important dates. Unless otherwise specified, instructors strictly enforce assignment deadlines.
 
Currently online credit courses are not open-entry or open-exit (i.e., start and finish whenever you choose). However, individual instructors may choose to be flexible. If you require a specific time frame, check with the course instructor to see if it's possible. Courses are not self-paced; students should work at the pace set by the instructor.

Expectations

Instructors expect online students to:

  • submit assignments by the specified deadline and in the format requested
  • participate (chat rooms, threaded discussions, etc)
  • understand that online courses are just as rigorous as face-to-face courses
  • obey the Virginia Tech Honor Code (graduate or undergraduate)
  • keep in frequent email contact

Students can expect instructors to:

  • return emails promptly (within a day or two)
  • notify them immediately of any changes to the course format
  • keep the course website current
  • provide a way for students to interact with other students online
  • direct students to appropriate university resources for technical or research support

Keep in mind that clear communication requires more effort in an online environment. It is your responsibility to let the instructor know when you have questions, are confused, or need technical support.

Success Strategies

Students who succeed in online courses are able to:

  • become actively involved in their learning
  • focus on their goals
  • prioritize their responsibilities
  • reach out for the assistance they need
  • find ways to identify and develop academic and social support systems within their courses
  • pay at least some attention to their health and wellness

The Cook Counseling Center at Virginia Tech offers Online Study Skills Workshops for topics such as study skills, time management, test anxiety, relaxation techniques, and other wellness related issues.

Tips from experienced eLearners:

  • be prepared to work independently
  • manage your time effectively
  • actively participate in the course
  • ask questions if you don't understand
  • be familiar with a computer
  • know what your VT Personal Identifier (PID) is and why you need yours activated (more info is at www.computing.vt.edu; you'll create a PID when you apply/enroll)
  • form a "buddy" system or support group and share email addresses
  • prioritize your tasks
  • ask your instructor for assistance if you require it
  • find out if there are any supplemental study tools for the course
  • inquire if tutoring at a distance is available