Distance Learning: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Answers

1. What are the advantages of taking distance education courses?

  • Allows you to learn in the convenience of your home or office without the time constraints of traditional campus courses.
  • Allows you to do your course work and earn college credits on a flexible schedule.
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2. Are distance education courses counted different from campus courses?

Each distance education course is equivalent to the on-campus sections of the same course in terms of objectives, contact, rigor, and transferability. Distance education courses are also approved for tuition assistance.
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3. How do I register for distance education courses?

Registration for students who have been admitted to the College is handled in the same manner as traditional course registration, through your Advisor.
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4. How do I purchase textbooks for my distance education courses?

Textbooks are available at the College bookstore or you can order online. Bookstore hours of operation, online ordering and additional information can be found on the bookstore page of our web site or by calling (252) 246-1222.
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5. How can I be successful in a Telecourse?
  • Be sure that you have time to take the course. While telecourses are convenient, they do require time and the ability and willingness to study independently.
  • Attend the required orientation session. This is the time you will meet your instructor and learn about the course requirements and the Support Services offered by Wilson Community College.
  • Obtain your study guide and/or textbook before you watch the first program. The study guide outlines lessons, gives details, includes sample tests, tells you what to watch for in the television program, and helps you review before tests. The textbook contains the primary reading material for each lesson. Both are available in the Bookstore.
  • Read the associated study guide and/or textbook materials before you watch each program.
  • Watch the program in an environment that is quiet, but not too comfortable, and do not try to take detailed notes.
  • Communicate with your instructor whenever you need assistance.
  • Keep up with assignments.
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6. What does a telecourse include?
  • an instructor available by telephone, e-mail, or in person during specified office hours
  • an orientation session to “meet” the instructor, receive the course syllabus and learn other information important to be successful in the courses
  • a textbook and/or study guide to direct and connect the reading and assignments
  • two half-hour video programs each week for telecourse students
  • chat sessions for internet students
  • required weekly online discussion sessions for internet students
  • a course syllabus outlining assignments, testing information, and other specific details about the course
  • on campus sessions for review purposes
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7. What are the characteristics of a successful online student?
  • Goal-oriented.
  • Knows how to navigate the Internet with a browser such as Netscape or Internet Explorer.
  • Has the required computer hardware and the necessary software.
  • Knows word processing.
  • Participates in a course orientation.
  • Knows how to work independently.
  • Begins course activities within the first week of the course.
  • Sets aside a specific time on a routine basis for study.
  • Keeps up with assignments.
  • Contacts the instructor promptly with questions about any aspect of the course.
  • Has the necessary skills, such as a college reading level.
  • Possesses good study habits.
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8. Will veteran's benefits pay for an online course?

Yes, educational benefits from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs may be used to pay for college credit online courses. Contact the College’s VA certifying official for details: rbissette@wilsoncc.edu or 252-246-1274.
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9. Will financial aid pay for an online course?

Yes, financial aid and military tuition assistance may be used for college credit online courses. Contact the Financial Aid Office for details: rbissette@wilsoncc.edu or 252-246-1274.
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10. What level of computer/Internet knowledge must I have to take online courses?

Basic knowledge of the Internet, Web browsers, and search engines is necessary. The ability to download and install software may be required. Word processing skills are also necessary, including creating, saving, attaching and managing files and copying and pasting text from one software application to another. Familiarity with the procedures for sending and receiving e-mail with attachments is essential.
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11. What equipment must I have to take an online course?

You must have access to a computer that meets the criteria below, access to Internet service, an e-mail account, and software that may be required by your instructor. Blackboard.com's minimum requirements for using Blackboard:

  • Platform: Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, or ME; MacOS 9 or MacOS X
  • Hardware: 64 MB of RAM, 1 G of free disk space
  • Software: Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat Reader
  • Browser: Internet Explorer 5.5 or Netscape 4.78, JavaScript & Cookies enabled
  • Modem: 56
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12. Are there any required on-campus meetings for online courses?

No, online courses are delivered entirely by the Internet.
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13. What do I do after I register for an online class?

Go to the Distance Education website and follow the instructions.
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14. When do online courses begin?

Students will have access to their online course during the first week of regular classes.
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15. How will my instructor contact me after I have registered for the online course?

You must submit the Online Verification Form to your instructor by e-mail prior to the first day of class.
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16. How do I get to the online course website?

Go to http://bb7.wilsoncc.edu, or you can go to Wilson Community College's website, www.wilsoncc.edu and click the Blackboard on the homepage, or you can go to the WTCC Distance Education website and click Blackboard.
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17. How do I login to my online course?

Information on logging into Blackboard can be found at the Distance Education website.View the Blackboard Orientation.
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18. Who do I contact if I cannot gain access to my online class?

Contact your instructor.
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19. Where can I find instructions for using the Discussion Board, Digital Drop Box, Virtual Classroom, or other features of Blackboard?

At the Distance Education website, view the Blackboard Orientation.
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