Distance Learning Orientation Frequently Asked Questions
The distance learning orientation is designed to prepare students for learning online, for blended classes, or for telecourses. The sessions can be taken online or in a traditional classroom setting.
When are orientation sessions offered?
Dates are posted along with a class listing on the Telecourses page and on the Online Learning page
How do I access the online version of the orientation?
Instructions for starting online version of orientation
What is covered in the orientation session?
Getting Started
- Tuition and financial assistance
- How to obtain textbooks and other course materials
- Student ID requirements
- How to contact your instructor
Preparing for Success
- Personal characteristics
- Equipment Specifications
- Technical Skills
- Student Expectations
Making Progress
- Schedules and Assignments
- Testing and Testing Services
- What to do if you experience a set back
What is the online version of the orientation like?
The orientation is arranged in three modules. There are supplementary videos that you may choose to watch. The three video segments are each 30 minutes in length.
The assignments include reading, online quizzes, online discussion, and exercises to teach you how check your grades and use other features of online course tools.
Work can be completed in one sitting or you may elect to work on it in chunks. It is your choice.
Who has to take the orientation?
All telecourse students are required to take the orientation once.
Each time a student attempts to register for a telecourse, they will be prompted to enroll in an orientation. The registration office has a list of students who have taken the orientation, and this requirement will be waived.
Online students are require to participate in an orientation session, as of fall 2007. Students who do not complete the orientation by the Friday of the first week of classes will be dropped from their online course.
Students do not need to take the orientation every semester.
How long is the orientation?
Telecourses: On-campus sessions take about 50 minutes (plus your driving time).
Online sessions can be completed in 1-2 hours, and need not be completed in one sitting.
Online Courses: On-campus sessions take about 90 minutes (plus your driving time).
Online sessions can be completed in 1-2 hours, and need not be completed in one sitting.
What is the deadline for completing the orientation?
The orientation should be completed by the first day of class. Online students must complete the orientation by the Friday following the first day of class or they will be dropped from their online course.
How do I begin the orientation?
If your session is on campus, please report to the room listed on the orientation page for telecourses or online courses. Your session will take just under an hour.
If your session is online, telecourse students will receive instructions in the mail. Online students will receive instructions when they submit the reservation form.
Do I have to take both the Online Orientation and the Telecourse Orientation if I am taking an online class and a telecourse?
The online version of the orientation satisfies the requirement for both online and telecourse students. Enroll in TEL-0000 and CSP-0002, but complete only the orientation for online learners.
How will I know when I'm done with the online orientation?
You will be able to see all of your grades and your final score in the online grade book.
Why don't I see my grade for the discussion question or the file exchange assignment?
These assignments are manually graded by the Learning Technologies staff. You should see your grade by the next working day.
How will my instructor know I completed the orientation?
Upon completion, the Learning Technologies staff will relate your status to your instructor.
Are there other orientation sessions to help me in my courses?
Yes. General technology orientations are offered through the Computer Resource Center.
The library offers orientations to library services.