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what IS A HYBRID (sometimes called hybrid/online)  CLASS?

In an online courses you do most of your work alone, online.  In a hybrid course, you are required to come to campus once per week.  This on campus class will either be a lecture, or a lab, or some form of group or individual work.  The online classes may have an orientation on campus, and perhaps a proctored exam.  However, Hybrid classes have regularly scheduled required meetings every week of the quarter.  THE EXCEPTION TO THIS RULE ARE OUR ENGLISH COURSES THAT ARE TAUGHT HYBRID.  The regularly scheduled meetings are done in a web conference format, where you will meet with your fellow students and instructor via our web conferencing software called "Elluminate."

What is an "online class"?

 Online courses are offered "asynchronously", which means that a student can access their coursework at any time of the day or week that fits their schedule from the convenience of their home computer. There are only three occasions that a students is required to come to the campus: orientation (first week), midterm exam, and final exam. 

Who can I talk to for more information on NC State Distance classes?

Contact the admissions office at 419-755-4800.  Or contact the distance learning office at 419-755-4711.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Can I Register for a Distance Class Online?
Only after you have completed your first meeting with an advisor. Then, if you have access to MyNCState-Student, you can register for NC State Distance classes. All ALOFT online classes will have the suffix AL- Such as CIS 121-AL.   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 (419)755-4734. 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. 

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 Organizations.

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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