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 by the Instructor in Canvas. Information may also be sent to you in your student email prior to the course starting. Included in the DL course will be course goals and objectives, assignments, due dates, grading criteria, extra credit options, contact numbers, etc.
By taking classes online, students can get the education they need with the flexibility of working around their busy schedules. While all course assignments have due dates, you can complete them any time of the day up to those due dates. Access to Canvas and tutoring is 24/7, 365 days a year.
The course requirement and learning objectives are comparable to that of a classroom course. Students who enroll in a Distance Learning course may find their learning enriched because of the resources available online, the ability to re-watch or reread course materials 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 capital, to an elected representative or to a major corporation online.
No. The registration fees for Distance Learning course are the same as a class offered on campus at Reedley College.
In most cases, you will not be required to come to campus, depending on the requirements set by your Instructor. Most coursework can be conducted online, depending on the type of course.
Confirm if the course is fully online, partially online (hybrid), or if it requires proctored assessments. For some courses, students will be required to complete exam(s) in person with the instructor, through the Assessment Center or with a proctor.
Distance Learning courses cannot be completed successfully using your phone. 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 in the Computer Lab on campus (LI 117) or the Library lab. Tablets may not provide access to all of your Distance Learning materials. Check browser requirements at CANVAS support.
Each distance learning course has an assigned instructor of record. You will find contact information, such as an email address and phone number, in your course in Canvas. Although you are not in a classroom, you can still seek guidance from your instructor when needed. Instructors usually have information for communication and expectations for returning messages on their syllabus. You can still access your Instructor during their regular office hours both on campus and online.
