How do I communicate with my professor?
You will communicate with your professor and other students via e-mail and electronic submissions. The course is designed so that you receive course assignments, complete them within a scheduled time which is provided by your instructor, and then return them as electronic documents. Your instructor will evaluate them and provide feedback. Many courses will also use, as an integral part of the course, a threaded discussion forum which you can use to share information, collaborate, and interact with other members of your class.
How will I take quizzes and exams?
Depending on the course design, you may take your tests or exams online or come to a testing room on campus or at a local community college or public library. Additionally, some courses and programs may require predetermined trips to campus, which you should plan for before registering. The majority of online courses at UT, however, do NOT require on-campus meetings.
Are distance learning courses harder or easier than on-campus courses?
You should expect to spend as much time for study, or perhaps more, as in an on-campus course since you are managing your own learning using the online information and materials. This requires that you be self-disciplined, motivated, and have some skills using a networked computer and a Web browser. The content and rigor of the online courses offered by the University of Toledo are generally equivalent to the on-campus version of the same course.
Are there other types of distance learning courses other than online/internet courses?
Yes. UT also offers CD-ROM, Telecourses and Web-Assisted Courses; however, the vast majority of DL courses are Internet courses.
Students taking CD-ROM courses may purchase material in a packet from the Bancroft Campus Student Bookstore. CD-ROM courses are designed to utilize the capabilities of interactive multimedia to teach course content; this includes original animation, audio, video interactive simulations, hypertext and graphics. Computer requirements are the same as online courses. CD-ROM courses may require on-campus visits.
Telecourses often require at least one on-campus meeting. Course content is presented through video tapes and text books, both of which may be purchased through the bookstore.
Web-Assisted Courses are traditional on-campus courses that are supplemented by online activities. Students must have access to either a personal or an on-campus computer which meets the minimum computer requirements mentioned on pages 16-17 of the handbook.
Can I earn an entire degree through distance learning?
Yes, please click on the top menu for programs.
Can I take both online distance learning classes and on-campus classes?
Yes. In fact many students take both distance learning classes and on-campus classes during the same semester.
Can I view a DL course schedule electronically?
Yes. The distance learning schedule can be found on our schedule page.
Once admitted, can I register for classes without coming to campus?
Yes. Once admitted you can register for courses using a computer at myUT. See the registration section for additional information.
Do you get different credits for distance learning courses and are distance learning courses entered differently on transcripts?
No. Credits are the same as for on-campus courses. Distance learning courses are not designated as such on transcripts.
Are distance learning classes “self paced?”
No. Distance learning courses start at the beginning of the semester/term and run throughout the scheduled course dates.
Do distance learning classes require a campus visit?
The vast majority of distance learning classes DO NOT require a campus visit; however, students need to contact the course instructor or check the course syllabus carefully to be certain no campus visit is required.
What are the advantages of taking distance learning courses?
Convenience: Take courses in the comfort of your home or office.
Computer Skills
If you have minimal computer skills and can find your way around the Internet, you should do fine with Internet based classes. Knowing word processing, Excel and Powerpoint are definite pluses. Strong writing skills are a definite advantage and students need basic emailing skills.
Is there a sample distance learning course I can look at?
Yes! E 4 Me is an online experience designed to introduce you to e-learning. It is intended for someone who is new to e-learning. At the end of this month long course, you will be able to: