Resources for Distance Learning
An online course is a class that is taken primarily over the Internet. Students read materials on the net or in their textbook. Class discussion is via discussion boards, online forums, chat rooms, or email. Assignments are usually submitted via the Blackboard or email. Some online courses require the student to come to campus for face-to-face meetings or proctored exams.
Curious if Online Learning is right for you? Take this short quiz
- Do you have reliable access to a computer and Internet?
- Do you know how to send and receive email messages?
- Do you stay on task without direct supervision?
- Do you know how to attach a file to an email message?
- Can you prioritize your workload?
- Can you learn from limited instruction (reading and completing assignments)?
- Do you access your email account on a daily basis?
- Can you easily understand and follow written instructions?
- Can you allocate 10-15 hours a week for your online course?
- Are you comfortable assessing your own progress?
If you answered NO to any of the questions, we suggest that you consider enrolling in CIT 105 - Introduction to Computers or DLC 100 - Digital Literacy in a traditional classroom. These courses are offered to equip students with the skills needed to successfully complete online courses.
After successful completion you may want to consider Learn on Demand for future courses.
If you answered YES to all of the questions, you may be a good candidate for online courses.
Students who are successful in these courses are able to work independently and structure their time wisely. A great deal of the material covered in online classes requires students to learn by reading from various sources. And of course, an important aspect of online learning is to make sure that your computer meets our technical requirements to support your online learning experience.
Before registering discuss the special demands of online class with the instructor or your advisor.
What is online learning?
Classes are held online using Blackboard Learn or Ultra. Your instructor will use Blackboard to share all information related to the class, including the syllabus and assignments. You will need access to the appropriate technology and a dependable Internet connection in order to be successful.
What kind of technology do I need?
A computer with Internet access and other software may be needed, depending on the course requirements. You should know to use Microsoft Office, how to send an email, and how to attach documents to an email. You should also complete the eLearning Orientation under the Start Here menu on Blackboard to learn about the components of Blackboard courses.
How do online courses work?
You read assigned materials on the Internet and/or in a textbook. You will likely take part in class discussions via discussion boards. Your instructor will post your assignments to Blackboard. You might also attend “face-to-face” sessions with your instructor using Blackboard Collaborate or Microsoft Teams.
How do I take tests or submit assignments?
You take tests and quizzes online, depending on the course and the test. Some courses require that you visit campus to take your exam with a proctor. You submit various assignments in Blackboard.
Where do I go to log into Blackboard?
Log into Blackboard at http://elearning.kctcs.edu or by selecting Blackboard under MyPath on ACTC’s website.
- Macintosh OS X (10.12 or higher), Windows PC (8 or higher), or Chrome OS (58 or higher)
- 4GB RAM (8GB RAM is more highly recommended)
- 20 GB of available hard drive space
- Screen resolution set to 1280x1024
- Broadband/high speed uninterrupted Internet access: minimum speed of 1.5 mbps download and 750 kbps upload
- Webcam, microphone, and speakers
- Blackboard courses are supported in Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari browsers (we recommend using Chrome for Blackboard Learn and Firefox for Blackboard Ultra)
Have questions about online learning? Send us a message!
Please note:
- Your name and email address are required because we may need to contact you for further information.
- This form is not secure. Please do not submit sensitive information (Student ID, Social Security Number, etc.)
