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What is
"Distance Learning"?
Distance Learning is a type of class where there is a separation of
either space or time between you and the instructor and/or the rest of
your class. There are four different varieties of Distance Learning
offered at NC State: Web-Based Classes,
Videotape/DVD Classes,
CD Audio Classes &
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes.
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How is a
Distance Class Different from a Regular Class?
You will primarily interact with your instructor and/or classmates at a
distance. There are a range of differences, depending on the specific
flavor of Distance class you are looking at.
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes
are most like a regular class in that you have regular class sessions
every week in an NC State classroom, the distance element being that
your instructor and classmates are in another location(s) around the
state. Videotape/DVD Classes
& CD Audio Classes
typically have an on-campus orientation and tests but the bulk of the
class is self-guided working through the materials on the tapes, DVDs or
Cds. Web-Based Classes also typically
have an on-campus face to face orientation but then have the rest of
class activities occur online. This non-traditional class environment
requires a different set of skills to be successful in and may not be
for everybody. Take our self-assessment
to learn more.
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Can I use my
Financial Aid for Distance Classes?
Yes. As all NC State Distance Classes are credit NCSC classes, you can
use your financial aid to pay for them.
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Do I Receive the
Same Credit for a Distance Class as a Regular Version of it?
Yes. All NC State Distance Classes are for-credit NCSC classes. They are
just delivered in an appropriate Distance format.
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What Equipment Do
I Need for a Distance Class?
Depending whether you are taking
Web-Based
Classes,
Videotape/DVD Classes,
CD Audio Classes or
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes,
may determine any special equipment or access to equipment you may need.
For Videotape, DVD
or
CD Audio Classes, you
probably will want to have convenient access to a player. For
Web-Based Classes, regular access to a
reliable computer with Internet access (especially high speed Internet
access) will make it a much more enjoyable class experience. NC State
Open Computer Labs are also available for use during posted hours. For
Videoconferencing Classes,, you do not
need any special equipment as NC State has rooms equipped with all
necessary conferencing equipment. Individual classes or instructors may
have activities that may require specialized equipment but they will let
you know this on the syllabus or at the orientation/1st class.
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What Skills Do I
Need for a Distance Class?
The Distance class environment requires a different set of skills to be
successful. Also, your particular Learning Style may not be ideally
suited for the Distance Environment. In general, successful Distance
students are self-motivated, have good time management skills,
comfortable working with technology, & have good reading and writing
skills. Take our self-assessment
to discover how well-suited to Distance Learning you may be.
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Is a Distance
Class Easier than a Regular Class?
No. In fact, most surveys say that the student workload in a Distance
class is often more than a comparable regular class.
Having a good set of Skills and a Learning Style
that are suited for Distance Learning is crucial for success because of
this.
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What Distance
Classes does NC State offer?
A current quarter listing of all NC State Distance classes is updated
regularly. All NC State "-90" class sections are
Videotape/DVD Classes or
CD Audio Classes. All All
NC State "-92" or higher class sections are
Web-Based Classes. At present, all
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes at NC State are offered from
4-year colleges for Bachelor's Completion programs and are listed on
the Videoconferencing Schedule. We
are always working to expand the number and variety of courses available
via Distance delivery.
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Can I Register
for a Distance Class Online?
If you have access to
MyNCState-Student, you can register for NC State Distance classes.
All NC State "-90" class sections are
Videotape/DVD Classes or
CD
Audio Classes. All All NC State "-92" or higher class sections are
Web-Based Classes. At present, all
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes at
NC State are offered from 4-year colleges for Bachelor's Completion
programs and as such, you need to register with the home university for
class. Contact Bruce Sliney for
information on that process.
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Who will I contact
if I have Questions or Problems While Taking a Distance Class?
For course-related questions or problems, you will always want to first
consult with your instructor. If you are experiencing technical problems
with the NCSC Blackboard server or NCSC Videoconferencing equipment, you
can contact the IT Help Desk for
Assistance. If you are not sure whether your issue is course-related or
technical in nature, start with your instructor and they will guide you
accordingly.
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What
Accreditation do NC State Distance Classes have?
The college and all of its courses are accredited by
the North Central
Association of Colleges and Schools. Additionally, NC
State is also a member of or recognized by
several other Accreditation
and Professional Organizaitons.
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How Will I Get Class Materials, Take Tests & Turn in
Work?
Specific mechanics vary from class to class and among the different
delivery methods. Generally speaking, any number of tools are utilized
to aid these class mechanics, including but not limited to: Blackboard,
FAXes, Proctoring, E-Mail, Campus Mail, Campus Bookstore etc. Your
instructor will cover these specifics at an orientation or on the 1st
day of class.
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What can I do from
home/What do I need to come to campus for during my distance class?
As far as general class logistics, you can register for and pay for your
NC State Distance Classes online if you have access to
MyNCState-Student. Also, several
Student
Services functions can be handled online or via phone, e-mail or
FAX. Books can be ordered online via the campus bookstore website.
Specific class on-campus meeting requirements vary from class to class
and among the different delivery methods.
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes will require you to come to a
campus video conferencing room each class session.
Web-Based Classes,
Videotape/DVD Classes &
CD Audio Classes generally
require at least one mandatory on-campus orientation and often have you
come back to campus to take tests. Contact the class Instructor for
specific class meeting requirements.
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Who can I talk
to for more information on NC State Distance classes?
Videotape/DVD Classes &
CD Audio Classes
Interactive Videoconferencing Classes
- - Contact Bruce Sliney
Web-Based Classes -
Contact the
course instructor.
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