General Questions and Answers
Just what is an Internet-based course?
In an Internet-based course, you, the student, do not attend any regularly scheduled classes. You communicate with other students and with your instructor via the Internet.
Why try this approach?
An Internet-based approach has the potential of offering several benefits. Since you do not have to attend any regularly scheduled classes, you do not have to be in a specific place at a specific time each and every week. You can do the required work when and where it is convenient for you. Also, since the class is offered in cyberspace, students from several campuses can easily participate in the same course. Courses are less likely to be cancelled due to insufficient enrollment.
How do Internet-based courses differ from their classroom-based counterparts?
There are differences in the way you "take" an Internet-based course as compared to a classroom-based course. The course instructors have adapted classroom experiences to Internet delivery. You may, for example, answer questions from the textbook's study guide on your PC rather than taking a quiz in the classroom. You will be required to "participate" in discussions by writing your thoughts on a particular topic. Many courses and textbooks utilize CD-ROMs to instruct and create visual experiences (such as Anatomy Labs) as well as other multi-media sources.
Why would I want to take an Internet-based course?
There could be several possible benefits for you to elect to take a course in this fashion. For many different reasons, some of our students find it very hard to attend classes for 2.5 hours, two nights a week for eight weeks. These students would benefit from the opportunity to learn the material and earn the credits at times and places convenient to them.
What are the minimum requirements to take an online class?
- A willingness to work independently.
- Familiarity with computers, Microsoft Office, and the internet.
- A reliable, high speed internet connection.
- An e-mail account.
- Up to date web browser
- Up to date Java
- Headset with microphone and webcam
Am I Suited For Online Learning?
You will either thoroughly enjoy the convenience of making your own schedule and taking your class at home, or you may really miss the structure and "teacher-centered" education in a classroom setting! This is very understandable, and you may now know what type of education will best serve you and better understand your learning style:
"Active or Reflective Learner"
"Sensing or Intuitive Learner"
"Visual or Verbal Learner"
"Sequential or Global Learner"
You will enjoy this type of course and program more if you:
- Are highly motivated
- Are independent
- Understand your "Learning Style"
- Have good organizational skills
- Put a high value on "convenience"
- Can adapt to new environments easily
- Enjoy searching for information on your own
- Have a good working knowledge of your computer and basic computer applications
- Check your e-mail every day and can attach files and open attachments in your e-mail program
- Are disciplined
- Are not dependent on other class members and teachers to help you each class
- Are confident in your academic abilities
- Have successfully taken college courses in a classroom
- Consider yourself a "college-level" reader
- Consider yourself a mature adult with time management skills
What can I expect from an Online course?
- Online courses are exactly the same as classroom courses in terms of quality, objectives, credits and learning outcomes.
- Online courses are "Student Centered" rather than "Teacher Centered," so you will not sit and listen to long lectures. Instead, you will engage in online interactions with your classmates and take an active role in the learning process.
- You must be an "active" learner, not a "passive" learner who waits for the instructor to remind you to do your homework or to check on your progress every day, letting you know which assignments are missing.
- You will be successful if you;
a) take responsibility for your own learning;
b) keep the instructor informed of any personal issues or assistance that you may need;
c) communicate with other students in the class;
d) keep up with the assignments;
e) log into the course daily to for updates, e-mails and other pertinent information;
f) complete the assignments for the course on time. - Online courses are not easier than classroom courses
- You should expect to spend 10-15 hours a week per online course.
- Technical and academic assistance
Please note that the Fisher Online staff and administration are available to you before, during, and after your courses. The quickest way to contact us is through e-mail, though you may call us during normal work hours at 866-309-6539.