What is Online Learning?

Web-based , Internet, and online - all words used to describe the acquisition of college credits through courses delivered via the Internet. This type of learning takes place outside of the traditional classroom setting. There are no set class times, no set days per week.  Students are able to access the course at times that are convenient to them from a computer that may be located just about anywhere. Course material is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Through an Internet portal, students log-in to course modules. These modules contain the same type of material that you would receive in a traditional classroom setting - lecture material and notes, reading assignments, student assignments, questions and answers, classroom discussion, as well as homework.  Instructor-led learning takes place through different learning activities, online resources, as well as through exchanges of information in discussion forums and live chats.

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 What are the benefits?

• Convenience and flexibility
  • Learn from your home or work- classroom-free
  • Course material available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week
• Economical
  • Travel and parking expenses are eliminated
  • Child care expenses are minimized
• More Efficient
  • Personality distractions and conflicts are lessened
  • Social and verbal distractions and barriers are minimized
• Skill Enhancement
  • Online skills are enhanced
  • Time and self-management skills are developed
• Empowerment
  • Introverted students find it easier to contribute and be heard
  • No pressure to perform "on the spot"
  • More time for research, thought, and reflection
• Organized and archived information
  • Lectures, notes, and resources are all stored online
  • Questions and discussions are recorded
• No distance barriers
  • Remote students have equal access to post-secondary education opportunities

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 What you will need

• Computer:

  You will need regular access to a computer with an Internet connection and Web access for the duration of your course. A Macintosh or PC system with at least a 800 MHz Pentium III (or Athlon) processor / 1.25 GHz G4 (or better) processor is required as is a reasonably up-to-date Operating System such as Windows XP/Vista (or above) or Mac OS X 10.5.4 or better, and at least 1 GB of RAM.

• Internet Access:

  Students must access and use their own internet account to connect to their on-line courses. An internet account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) providing SLIP/PPP connections is required (freenet accounts will not work).

  High speed is recommended for the ideal learning experience. However, for the patient learner, a Dial Up connection will work. Cable or DSL connections will also work.

• Web Browser:

  An up-to-date graphical browser such as Internet Explorer or Firefox is required. In some instances, it may be necessary for some users to upgrade their web browser programs.

• Email:

  You are required to provide your own email address at the time of registration. This is required in order to receive course access instructions.

• Textbooks and Software/Hardware:

  Most courses require word processing software. Individual courses may have additional textbook, technical and/or software requirements. Information is provided in the Off-Campus Booklist located on the Continuing Education homepage (www.cambriancollege.ca/continuing). You may be required to install software on your computer. In the event you are using a workplace computer, please be sure to check with your employer before registration.

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Start and end dates

Each online course will have both a start and an end date.  Although the pace of learning may be flexible, students will be required to complete all course assignments, tests, etc. according to the posted course schedule and prior to the end date of the course.

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