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- How do Distance Learning classes differ from regular classes?
- I work full-time and have kids; how will the Distance Learning program work for me?
- Is the course work easier online?
- Do Distance Learning courses cost more than classroom courses?
- What are the differences between Internet, Independent Study/CD-ROM, Cablecast and Telecourses?
- I live really far away; will I have to come to campus?
- If I don't live in Orange County (CA), can I still take a telecourse?
- If I don't live in Orange County (CA) can I still take a Cablecast course?
- What equipment/software do I need to take a Distance Learning course?
- I don't have a computer with Internet access, can I still take an Internet class?
- I don't have e-mail; can I still take a Distance Learning class?
- Do I need computer experience to take a Distance Learning class?
- Since I am not in a classroom course, do I have an instructor and how will I keep contact with him/her?
- I am registering late and the class I want is
closed; can I petition the course?
- I may need an early grade report; can I get one with a Distance Learning course?
Answers
- How do Distance Learning classes differ from regular classes? Top
In a distance learning course, academic expectations are similar to a classroom course: Reading the assigned text, taking quizzes and exams, doing extra credit if needed, participating in class discussions, watching videos, doing some outside research, writing papers, and consulting with your instructor if you need help. The difference is that many of these activities can be performed at a distance, in the comfort of your own home and on your own 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 in the Student Handbook or 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.
- I work full-time and have kids; how will the Distance Learning program work for me? Top
By taking classes via Internet, watching Cablecast courses or videos aired on the television and participating in the Independent CD-ROM courses, students can get the education they need with the flexibility of working around their busy schedules.
- Is the course work easier online? Top
The course requirements and learning objectives are comparable to that of a classroom course. Students who enroll in an Internet course may find their learning enriched because of the resources available online and accessibility to the instructor as well as student-to-student communication. The instructor may take their students on a "virtual" field trip or require a writing assignment that will take students to the state capitol, to an elected representative or to a major corporation online.
- Do Distance Learning courses cost more than classroom courses? Top
No. The registration fees for Internet courses, Telecourses, Cablecast courses, Independent-Study courses and CD-ROM self-study courses are the same as a class offered on campus at Coastline gGenerally $11.00 per unit).
- What are the differences between Internet, Independent Study/CD-ROM, Cablecast and Telecourses? Top
Telecourses are aired on KOCE, students follow the dates in the course handbook and turn the required work by the due date. Quizzes are submitted on scantron, and students will come in for a midterm and final. Cablecast courses are only for local students, the lessons are aired on local cable channels, these classes follow the same outline as the telecourse. Internet courses also have a syllabus to follow, all quizzes are submitted online. Students still come in for midterm and finals. CD-ROM courses generally have digitized video lessons packaged with the CD. Students who live outside of the Los Angeles and Orange County (CA) area, see the next question for information regarding taking the midterm and final. More information on the different course types can be found in the Course Types section of the Distance Learning Information page.
- I live really far away; will I have to come to campus? Top
In general, no. All coursework can be conducted over the Internet via the World Wide Web, or with a combination of media materials. However, the midterm and final will require onsite attendance and a photo ID. Students who do not live in the Los Angeles or Orange County (CA) area may submit a proctor agreement form by mail. The proctor must meet the criteria specified on the form and will be mailed the exams to administer to the student. The Distance Learning office does not accept faxed copies of the agreement form.
- If I don't live in Orange County (CA) can I still take a Telecourse? Top
Yes, you can rent the videos for the course from a company called RMI Media, Inc.
- If I don't live in Orange County (CA) can I still take a Cablecast course? Top
No, Cablecast courses are for local students only. There are no video rentals for these courses and the lessons are only broadcast on local cable channels for the surrounding cities.
- What equipment/software do I need to take a Distance Learning course? Top
This varies depending on the particular class.
For Telecourses, you will need access to KOCE (broadcast from Orange County, CA on Channel 50) on your television, or be a Cable TV subscriber reached by our educational television channel, commonly called "Edu-Cable". 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 standard mail service).
For Internet courses, the following is needed:
- Access to a multimedia computer with at least a 500Mhz processor, 128Mb of RAM, 56Kb modem, 8X CD-ROM drive, and a sound card with speakers. Optimally, you should have a computer with at least a 1Ghz processor, 256Mb of RAM, and a high speed Internet connection such as DSL or Cable.
- Have a basic understanding on how to use the Internet, a Web browser, and e-mail in order to concentrate on the course study, not the technology.
- Full service connection to the Internet via an Internet service provider and a valid e-mail account (students are required to provide their own e-mail account). Internet service providers include Earthlink, AT&T, SBC, RoadRunner cable, etc.
- A current version of a Web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer 5 (version 6 recommended), Netscape 4.7 (version 7 recommended), Mozilla 1.2 (version 1.5 recommended), or other up to date browser. NOTE: Some courses have material, such as online PowerPoint presentations, that is accessible only with a current version of Microsoft Internet Explorer.
- A current version of Adobe Acrobat Reader (version 4 or later), RealPlayer (at least version 8, though RealOne is recommended), and a Windows Media capable player (such as Windows Media Player, minimum version 6.4) to access supplemental material and reviews. These are free downloads available online and links are provided to download sites.
- Some students using AOL browsers or who are behind firewalls have reported problems accessing certain parts of the Distance Learning and the course websites. It is recommended that students use a browser other than AOL (AOL Internet access can still be used by minimizing the AOL browser and using one of those recommended above), and that they not be behind a firewall.
- Please call the Distance Learning Technical Helpline at (714) 241-6304 with any questions regarding the hardware and software required or to learn if your system meets the requirements necessary to access the online courses. (Please note that this is a call back service with answers generally being returned in 24-48 hours.)
All the software recommended is available as free downloads (links can be found on our software and plug-ins page).
- I don't have a computer with Internet access; can I still take an Internet class? Top
Students who do not have a computer with Internet access (or have a slow computer or who experience computer problems during the semester) can use the computers available at the Information Commons in the Garden Grove Center. Another alternative is to check out Coastline's telecourses.
- I don't have e-mail; can I still take a Distance Learning class? Top
Companies such as Yahoo! and Hotmail offer free e-mail. Students can register for these services and then access their e-mail from any computer connected to the Internet.
- Do I need computer experience to take a Distance Learning class? Top
While you do not need to be a computer expert, you do need to know how to:
- navigate the Internet
- use e-mail
- download a program from the Internet and install it
- conduct a search on the web
If a student is self-motivated, can follow instructions from the computer screen and likes to figure things out on his/her own, an online course will be an enriching educational experience.
- Since I am not in a classroom course, do I have an instructor and how will I keep contact with him/her? Top
Each class has an instructor who holds regular contact hours. They also have voicemail and e-mail, allowing students and instructors to communicate with each other. Although you are not in a classroom, you can still get guidance from your instructor when needed. In addition, most classes have a discussion forum available on the website (though students should be aware that there will be a delay before they receive an answer). You may also make an appointment with your instructor if you need to speak with them in person (this is done through the instructor, not the Distance Learning department).
- I am registering late and the class I want is closed, can I petition the course? Top
Unfortunately, no, there are some classes that reach a maximum number of students allowed. You may check to see if the class you want is offered as a second eight-week course.
- I may need an early grade report; can I get one with a Distance Learning course? Top
Yes, you can get an early grade. You will need to finish the coursework early, enabling your instructor to issue the report. Please give your instructor ample notice and keep in mind their office hours.
- I've enrolled in a Distance Learning class; now what do I do?
- How do I know what books to buy and how will I get them if I am out of the area?
- Do I wait for a confirmation letter before getting started in my course?
- When can I start my online course?
- There are three different listings of when I should watch my videos; do I have to watch all of them?
- Can I talk to other students in the class?
- What if I miss a class?
- When my student handbook says a quiz is due by Tuesday of week four, what exactly does that mean?
- I get off of work at 5pm and the Distance Learning office closes at 5pm; what do I do about turning in my assignments and quizzes?
- I am taking an Internet course; can I still submit my quiz on a scantron?
- If I submit my quiz online, how will I know my score?
- If I submit my quiz on a scantron, how will I know my score?
- What if I am late turning in a quiz or an assignment?
- I can't make it to my midterm/final on the date
that is scheduled in my handbook; what should I do?
Answers
- I've enrolled in a Distance Learning class; now what do I do? Top
Officially enrolled students can access their course site a week prior to the start of the semester. Students are required to complete and submit a "Letter of Agreement" (Internet students do this online). Each course has the course syllabus online to get students off to a great start, including books required, reading assignments and activities. More information can be found on the Getting Started page.
- How do I know what books to buy and how will I get them if I am out of the area? Top
The Coastline Bookstore has text and materials arranged by subject, just look for your section number(s) and read the tag to see what is required (and what is optional) for your class(es). Students who live out of the area (as well as local students) may purchase their books online at the Coastline Community College Online Bookstore (http://www.coastlinebookstore.com). Using the section number(s) for your course(s), follow the directions on the first page to find out what books are required for the course(s) you are enrolled in. After payment is received your order will be shipped to you.
- Do I wait for a confirmation letter before getting started in my course? Top
No, course websites are up approximately one week before the start of the course. You may begin reviewing the syllabus for course information and due dates. All quizzes are scored/entered 5-7 business days after the due date, so don't wait or your work may be late!
- When can I start my online course? Top
Preparation for the course can begin one week prior to the start
date. In this way you will be ready to start on the very first day
of the term or semester. Good Luck!
- There are three different listings of when I should watch my videos; do I have to watch all of them? Top
No, we try and offer as much convenience as possible for your busy schedule. You may choose one of the listings posted and watch them each week at the same time as listed in your schedule. Remember, there are viewing centers available and you may record the lesson on your VCR.
- Can I talk to other students in the class? Top
Yes. Most courses have a Bulletin Board/WebBoard/Forum on which the students and instructor can communicate as if in a classroom (though not in real-time). A few classes also hold live chat sessions (real-time) throughout the course. Some students have also set up study groups online.
- What if I miss a class? Top
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, you schedule is really your own. Just be careful not to miss submission deadlines for quizzes, tests, and assignments, or fall behind in your reading! All students keeping pace and doing conscientious work should do well in the class.
- When my student handbook says a quiz is due by Tuesday of week four, what exactly does that mean? Top
On the left side of the handbook page is the date for the week and during each week the assignments are listed along with the due date. The first week of the class is week one and it will list the dates for the whole week. If a quiz is due by Tuesday of week four and the dates listed for week for are 9/17-9/23 then the quiz would be due on 9/18.
- I get off work at 5pm and the Distance Learning office closes at 5pm; what do I do about turning in my assignments and quizzes? Top
You may mail your assignment in to the Distance Learning office, or a white mailbox is conveniently located outside the Coastline College Center front door for students who cannot bring in course work during office hours.
- I am taking an Internet course; can I still submit my quiz on a scantron? Top
No, Internet classes are done strictly on the Internet. The handbook/syllabus is online as well as the quizzes. One advantage of an online course is that you get immediate feedback after submitting your quiz.
- If I submit my quiz online, how will I know my score? Top
Students will receive immediate results at the e-mail address provided by the student. Please put the whole e-mail address to insure that you receive your results, (e.g., johnqpublic@tepidmail.com).
- If I submit my quiz on a scantron, how will I know my score? Top
Depending on the course, you will receive correspondence in the mail regarding your total score, if you fill out the scantron completely and correctly. Please include name, student ID number (your social security number unless you requested an alternate number during registration), and quiz name/number in the spaces provided. In addition, progress reports containing scores for all assignments, quizzes and exams completed are mailed to students twice per semester for all courses except Internet courses.
- What if I am late turning in a quiz or an assignment? Top
Students turning in late work will not receive any feedback from our office, and it will be graded during the time the next quiz is due. Depending on the instructor you may have points reduced or you may not receive any credit at all.
- I can't make it to my midterm/final on the date that is scheduled in my handbook; what should I do? Top
Students may schedule an alternate exam with the Distance Learning office for one week before the instructor's original scheduled date. Exams taken late will be penalized 10% of the total possible points (rounded up).
- I tried to submit my quiz, but the website is not responding; what do I do?
- Every time I try to get into one of my courses, I get a message that says, "An error has occurred in the scripts on this page." What is wrong?
- I can't access my quizzes. What do I do?
Answers
- I tried to submit my quiz, but the website is not responding; what do I do? Top
While we make every effort to assure that the websites and content are always available, there is the possibility that influences beyond our control can prevent students from accessing the site. If something such as this occurs we will make accommodations on a case by case basis after conferring with the instructor (if necessary). You can try resubmitting your quiz (we will only take the first score). If all else fails, contact the Distance Learning Department as soon as possible.
- Every time I try to get into one of my courses, I get a message that says, "An error has occurred in the scripts on this page." What is wrong? Top
This is usually an indication that your browser software is not up-to-date. We recommend that you use the latest version of your browser. We have tested most of our pages in, and therefore recommend, Microsoft Internet Explorer version 5 (or later), Netscape Navigator version 4 (or later), or Mozilla 1.2 (or later). We have also noticed some problems with AOL browsers not accessing or displaying pages properly. We recommend that AOL users log on to the Internet using the AOL software as needed, then switch to Internet Explorer, Netscape, or Mozilla to access the Distance Learning website.
- I can't access my quizzes. What do I do? Top
First, make sure you used the proper log-in information (log-ins and passwords are all lower-case and do not contain hyphens or spaces) and are trying to access the proper quiz. Generally, access to quizzes is not granted until 4 days prior to the due date. Access to quizzes is set up by hand for each class and if you enrolled late, you may not have been entered yet under these classes. If you have the right quiz, log-in, time frame, and have been enrolled for more than one week and are still unable to access the quiz, then contact the Distance Learning Department as soon as possible.
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