Registration begins on Tuesday, March 19. If you are thinking about taking an online course for the first time, it would be good to take a look at these Top 10 Myths about online learning and to speak with your advisor.
Myth 1: Don’t have the time to take classes on-campus, online classes are easy, right?
Online classes by nature can be more demanding due to the increased reading (online lecture materials, plus the textbook) and the required interactions between course materials and classmates. Online students also are more accountable for the same assigned workload as on campus classes and it’s expected that they will spend as much time if not more with the material. On average, students (on campus or online) should spend about two hours of studying for every hour of class time (this includes reading, writing papers, projects, preparing for tests). Time management is critical to be successful as you juggle your busy schedule with your studies. Therefore, if you don’t have time to take a class on campus, do you really have the time to take one online?
Myth 2: Procrastination is OK in online classes
Online learners need to be self-disciplined, motivated and able to work independently since it’s their responsibility and it is essential to complete course work by deadlines. Online classes provide flexibility, in terms of when the assignment is done, but students need to be able to manage this flexibility accordingly and not use that flexibility to put off doing the work.
Myth 3: Anytime, Anywhere…Well Not Exactly
What’s nice about online classes is that you can take one from anywhere in the world and you can work on assignments at anytime of day. However, online classes are structured learning environments and there are specific deadlines and due dates for course work. The instructor sets deadlines in order to keep everyone on track and interacting with each other as a whole.
Myth 4: I can do everything in a single online session
Online classes are not just about completing course work. You are often required to regularly participate in online discussions and if you only log in once or twice during a week your grade could suffer. Online classes are rich integrated learning environments just like the traditional classroom. Therefore, they require attendance several times a week.
Myth 5: I will be taught how to use a computer in my online class
Instructors will expect that you have the necessary skills to come to class. The instructor’s role is to focus on the subject specific course material, not teaching you how to use a computer or the Internet. If a course requires the use of specialized software than you can expect to be taught how to use that specialized software. Prior to starting an online class, you should plan to know how to use a computer, the Internet and standard online tools such as e-mail, web browsers, word processors, etc. on your own.
Myth 6: Computer problems are acceptable excuses
Online learners are responsible for having or finding access to a working computer with an Internet connection that meets certain minimum requirements. Most instructors won’t accept the excuse that your computer was broken. Be advised that mobile devices (tablets, smartphones, etc.) may not have all the necessary features and functionality needed to successfully complete an online course.
Myth 7: Personal attention doesn’t exist in an online class
Actually students who have taken online classes say they feel there is more attention from their instructors than face-to-face classes. Most instructors are logging on daily, checking for questions on assignments, watching out for assignment problems, etc. and usually get back to students right away. Remember you can always call your professor or stop by an office if possible. Many instructors also offer “virtual office hours” where you can contact them during a certain day and time either via e-mail, chat or webinar.
Myth 8: I can “hide” and remain anonymous in an online class
Most online classes have discussion components and some have group work. Therefore, you need to be accountable and cannot remain anonymous. Class discussions allow students to interact with the course material by sharing ideas, opinions, asking questions, etc. with both classmates and the instructor. Most students find that there is more discussion and interaction in online classes because more classmates participate.
Myth 9: Online classes do not follow the regular schedule
Although you are able to work on your coursework when you want to, online courses are NOT self-paced courses. They follow the same term calendar as far as registration, paying, policies, midterms and finals, etc. as on-campus classes. They have assignment deadlines just like an on campus course. Not meeting these deadlines and falling behind in their coursework is the leading reason why online students do not succeed.
Myth 10: Online classes are just online textbooks
Online classes are integrated learning environments that offer a structured framework for course materials. Online course materials include textbooks, student guides, Internet sites, videos and more. There also is discussion and collaboration among classmates that helps you apply knowledge to develop skills.
This chart identifies the types and section numbers for online courses as they appear in WIReD. Please speak with your advisor if you have any questions.
| Instructional Method WIReD: | Method Code: | Description: | Section Number: |
| Online: Blackboard | Blackboard | Offered in a Web-based format delivered entirely through the Internet. | Fall & Spring: 300-329 420-429, 620-629 |
| Summer: 220-229, 320-329, 420-429, 620-629 | |||
| Online: Blackboard | Proctored | Offered in a Web-based format delivered entirely through the Internet. These sections also have proctored exam requirements either on campus or at a location determined in consultation with the instructor and the Distance and Online Learning office. | Fall & Spring: 320-329, 430-439, 630-639 |
| Summer: 230-239, 330-339, 430-439, 630-639 | |||
| Presentation/Exam On Campus | Presentation | Offered in a Web-based format through the Internet. These courses also have limited meetings on campus (finals, presentations, specialized software). | Fall & Spring: 340-349, 450-459, 650-659 |
| Summer: 250-259, 350-359, 450-459, 650-659 | |||
| Hybrid | Hybrid | Offered as a hybrid course, which include a combined structure of required on-campus classroom contact and instruction that is delivered via a Web-based format. | Fall & Spring: 360-369, 460 – 480, 670-680 |
| Summer: 270-279, 370-379, 470 – 479, 670-679 |
Message from Distance Learning Office
Published: Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:45:15 +0000 by s.gallagher