Online Learning
WCCCD’s online and distance learning options deliver classes when and where you need them. Complete online courses whenever you choose. Join real-time classes from a distance. Mix distance and on-campus courses for maximum flexibility.
Choose from three types of distance courses: online, live online, or interactive. Each offers its own advantages. But all teach the same content, develop the same skills, and carry the same transfer credit as traditional campus-based courses.
If you’re a high school student, consider Virtual Middle College, a convenient way to earn college credits online. You can also explore interests and build job skills through the School of Continuing Education’s e-Learning Center.
New Distance Learning Students
Just registered for an online course or another distance learning option? Start by completing an online orientation and a few other essential steps.
How to Be Successful Taking Classes Online
Self-Discipline
You might be attracted to the flexibility that online learning offers, but remember that this flexibility requires you to be motivated and self-disciplined. To succeed in online courses, you must prioritize your educational goals and focus on your coursework. If you can stick to a plan and put in the effort necessary to succeed, online learning could be a great fit for you.
Time Management
Unlike traditional classes with set schedules and structures, online classes require you to manage your own time and set your own priorities. You must allocate time for participating in your online courses, studying, and completing assignments. To be successful, you should develop and stick to a plan, stay ahead of your tasks, and seek help when needed. Balancing your educational goals with other life responsibilities can be challenging, but the flexibility of online learning makes it possible.
Organizational Skills
Balancing a busy schedule with work, family, and education can be tough, but it’s achievable with the right mindset and approach. You should set goals, establish a pace to reach them, and keep track of your progress. Most importantly, be prepared to adapt when things don’t go as planned. If this approach sounds like how you handle challenges, then online learning might be the best way for you to achieve your educational goals.
How Do Distance Courses Fit My Schedule?
Online courses fit almost any schedule. You can complete fully online courses and programs on your own time. Or you can join live online or hybrid courses at their scheduled times, saving the time and costs of commuting.
If you are working toward a degree or certificate from WCCCD, which offers fully online degrees and certificates, you can usually complete up to 49% of your program’s requirements in other program areas online.
Types of Online Courses
These are fully online instructor-led courses, with live interactive weekly class meetings facilitated by your instructor in Blackboard. Meetings and communication are through chat, email, and/or videoconferencing. Faculty and students are online at the same time for the class meetings, with additional online work done on their own.
These are fully online, instructor-led courses without mandatory class meetings. Instructor communication and feedback are through Blackboard. Students can access class resources and complete work on their own schedule (by posted due dates) as the instructor releases materials. Faculty and students are not necessarily online simultaneously unless an appointment is scheduled.
For those of you who would prefer to take advantage of the best features of both face-to-face and online learning, WCCCD offers hybrid courses that combine in person and online delivery. Hybrid courses (also known as blended courses) replace a portion of traditional face-to-face instruction with web-based online learning (e.g., video lectures, online discussions, or activities). Typically, hybrid courses will meet 50 percent of the time in the classroom and 50 percent online.
Need Technical Support?
The Center for Learning Technology supports our virtual and distance learning classrooms. Its dedicated faculty is here to support your academic and personal growth. Visit the Center for Learning Technology for any support you need on your online learning journey.
Contact the Center for Distance Learning
Located in the Mary Ellen Stempfle University Center.
Open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
