About Distance Learning

Distance Learning (DL) at its most basic level, takes place when teachers and students are separated by physical distance and/or time. At CCRI, there are currently two course formats available through asynchronous distance learning and one synchronous format. The asynchronous formats are web courses and telecourses. Distance Learning options make it easy and convenient to take classes even if you can't get to campus. These courses contain the same content as the on-campus offerings but are available in an anytime-anywhere format. The synchronous format is inter-campus video conferencing which makes it possible to take an on-campus course at the campus of your choice.

Web Courses

Web courses take place via the Internet and all but two music courses use a software tool called WebCT. (More information on the Music courses can be found within Pipeline under My Courses after registration for the course.)

WebCT allows instructors to place course content in a password-protected site that only students who are registered for the class can access. Students can access these courses from any computer that has a connection to the Internet at anytime day or night. As with an on-campus class, you will have assignment due dates and if your class has online exams, exams may have due dates as well. Students and Instructors will typically interact with each other via e-mail and bulletin board discussions. View more information on logging into WebCT, creating an account and using the various tools within WebCT, here.

Telecourses

Telecourses (TV courses) are classes viewed on cable television with the primary mode of communication between students and faculty through the Internet using either Pipeline or WebCT. View more information about telecourses, viewing schedules and course syllabi here.

Video Conferencing

Video conferencing courses are synchronous distance courses, which means that they take place at a fixed day and time and require on-campus attendance. These courses are unique in that although they are offered at the same day and time they are conducted on at least two campuses simultaneously. Usually the courses are conducted from the distance learning rooms on a minimum of two different campuses, although this may vary depending on the course. The usual model is for an instructor of a video conferenced course to alternate campuses, lecturing onsite for one campus while video conferencing the lecture to the other campus.

Registration

Students register for online courses and telecourses the same way they register for online courses. For more information, please view the "Getting Started" module.

What Courses are Offered Through Distance Learning?

The number and variety of distance courses changes every semester. View course schedules for updated information.

What are the Costs for Distance Courses?

The costs for distance courses are similar to on-campus courses. In some instances there may be an additional licensing charge for publisher content.

Do I Ever Have to Come to Campus?

Many distance courses offer orientations on-campus and some require students to come to campus throughout the semester for exams or special assignments. However, in certain circumstances, arrangements can be made for those who are physically unable to come to the campus.

Can I Earn a Degree at a distance?

There is currently a Web Site Development Associate Degree and Certificate available through DL at CCRI. All other courses are designed to fulfill portions of degree requirements. If you are interested in earning a degree in something other than web site development, some work must be completed through on-campus courses.

What Are the Requirements for Taking DL Course?

In addition to having access to a computer with an Internet connection for web courses and access to cable TV for telecourses, succeeding in DL courses requires some different skills. To see if you are a good candidate for distance learning see our distance learning orientation.