Are online courses self-paced?

• No. Online courses are conducted as a regular semester course similar to a traditional classroom course with weekly study assignments and learning activities, and class due dates for the various activities. You may be able to work ahead for study assignments and some of the learning activities. However, activities such as chat, discussions, exams, etc. will be based on the published schedule.

Are there any particular personal characteristics I need to succeed in online courses?

• Yes, you must be a self-starter who is self-disciplined and committed enough to study and learn on your own. You must have sufficient personal organizational and time-management skills to effectively manage without depending upon added lecture explanation. An online course can be a great way to take a course for many, but it is not for everyone.

Are there any particular differences between an online course and a traditional lecture course?

• An online course is likely to require as much or more of your time than a traditional lecture course. While you will not be attending class meetings, you will be completing a number of learning activities to help you solidify your understanding of the course materials. For some, these will take more time than one might spend in a lecture course. The advantage of an online course is that you can carry out all of your learning activities in the context of your other time commitments. Plus, you can participate in the course no matter where you are physically located as long as you have access to the Internet.

How good do I have to be at using a computer to take an online course?

• Online courses require that entering students demonstrate competency in word processing, presentation managers, and Internet applications. Your instructor will conduct courses on the assumption that you already have these skills.

What if my computer breaks down while I am taking an online course?

• You are responsible for providing your own computer equipment in good working condition configured to support the course requirements. You should regularly back up any work you develop on the computer. If your equipment breaks down, you must make arrangements to use alternative equipment. If you are in proximity to a MCC computer lab, you may use that equipment. Generally, computer equipment failure or your failure to backup your files is not an acceptable reason for not completing an assignment. If you are having these kinds of problems, contact your instructor and he/she will try to advise you on your options.

What if my job requires me to work extra hours, or to travel, or a health or family issue interferes with my progress on the course?

• You should address these issues just as you would for a traditional classroom course by contacting your instructor to make him/her aware of your situation. Your instructor will deal with each student individually as interfering issues arise - if you notify your instructor when the situation arises. None of these conditions relieve you of your responsibility to meet the requirements for the course. If your successful completion of the course assignments on schedule is in jeopardy, then immediately contact your instructor to seek his/her assistance in identifying viable options.

How will I take quizzes?

• Your instructor will administer quizzes online during an announced span of dates and times, often covering multiple days. You may take the quizzes when it is convenient to your schedule, but you must complete each quiz during the announced availability period. In some cases, your presence on campus may be required.

What if I do not understand some aspect of the material?

• Some online courses include a discussion board where questions can be posted for other students or for your instructor's response. In addition, your instructor may be available regularly for chats on a pre-scheduled basis. You may also email or call your instructor with specific questions.

What if I can not be available to participate in required chats or phone conferences?

• Chats and conferences will be scheduled at times consistent with availability schedules that you will provide your instructor. Some chats and conferences will be among small student groups and will be scheduled by the small student groups at times that the group members agree upon.