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 General information about online coursesThe online environment is not an easier place to learn. Like on-ground courses, the degree of difficulty in an online course is always determined by the course competencies. The difference is that there is more flexibility when you choose to complete requirements during a given time period and the convenience of not being required to travel to a particular location. Online then is not intended to be easier, but more convenient.
You should plan to sign onto the system five days per week minimum. This can be done anytime, at your convenience, within a 24-hour period. During this time, you will receive your assignments for the class and send completed assignments to your instructor or correspond with other students regarding discussion questions.
Preparing responses to the comments and assignments of other students in your virtual classroom averages about 30-60 minutes per day. You should be willing to work offsite from your work location (i.e. nights and weekends).
Reading, research, and offline activities needed to complete your work will require a minimum of 30 minutes per day on average. Some of this time may be spent at the computer - working with the demo version of the FirstClass Server.
The total time you should plan to complete the work in the class is approximately 10-15 hours per week for the AVERAGE student. This can vary from week to week depending on your familiarity with the areas being studied.
The prime reason for people dropping this course is that once they get started, they find the requirements for participation are beyond their expectations. This is not a course in which you can just sign on occasionally, make an observation, and then fade into the background. You should be willing to work offsite from your work location (i.e. nights and weekends). You should seriously evaluate your interest and ability to this type of commitment, as well as your other current responsibilities. The participation level of this class is what creates the synergy of a “learning community” online. It is dependent on all students being involved and actively sharing.
Technology Requirements
You will need a moderate level Pentium PC running Windows NT/2000 or a Macintosh system running Mac OS9/OSX if you are going to take this course (note: online is only convenient if you do not have to depend on someone else or someplace other than home to do your work). Your system must be able to connect with the Internet ie: a modem or better (Cable/DSL connection recommended).
Available courses
Full course descriptions can be found in the Course Descriptions conference.
Registration information can be found in this document.
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