MWCC Distance Learning Frequently Asked Questions
In today’s world of high technology, students are now able to complete college classes via the Internet. Distance learning courses are not for everyone. The decision to take a distance learning course versus a traditional course should not be taken lightly. These guidelines will help you decide if distance learning is right for you.
What type of student should take distance learning courses?
Distance learning courses are not for everyone! The most important characteristic of a distance learning student is self-motivation. You will not have an instructor in front of you reminding you to complete assignments. You must motivate yourself to get your work done in a timely manner. If you are a procrastinator, a distance learning course is not a wise choice.
Who is eligible to take a distance learning course?
Anyone who applies and is accepted by MWCC or is currently enrolled as a student is eligible to register for distance learning courses as long as they meet required prerequisites. First-time students need to go through the admissions process and take the placement test given by the assessment center. The results of this test help advisors determine if you are ready for college-level work or if you need assistance in fundamental courses such as reading, writing and math. If a fundamental course is required, it must be completed prior to registering for college-level courses. Some fundamental courses are offered in the distance learning format.
Are distance learning courses self-paced?
No, in most courses you must keep up with the sceduled course work. Courses are instructor led and follow the same semester schedule as traditional courses. All specific course information such as how to reach the instructor, what work is expected, and deadlines to turn in assignments and take tests will be found in your course site.
What equipment do I need to take a distance learning course?
MWCC uses Blackboard distance learning software to deliver course materials. As a web-based application, Blackboard itself has no minimum hardware requirements for your computer. In order to use a browser with Blackboard, your computer most likely needs to meet the following minimum specifications:
- Platform: Windows 2000, NT, ME, or XP; Macintosh OS X
- 256 MB of RAM, 1G of free disk space
- Reliable Internet Connection (the faster, the better)
- Software: A word processing program, preferably Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Email account is required and is provided by the college
- Browsers:
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.x or higher is recommended
- Netscape Navigator 7 or higher is recommended
- Safari
- JavaScript and cookies must be enabled
Courses requiring specific software may have different computer hardware requirements from what's listed here. Please check with the software manufacturer for specific requirements before installing the program on your computer.
For technical questions about Blackboard, contact our IT Helpdesk at helpdesk@mwcc.mass.edu or call (978)630-9378.
I have never used a computer. Should I take distance learning courses?
You should not take a distance learning course if you are not computer literate or do not feel comfortable with your computer skills. You do not have to be an expert, but you should have some experience with
Navigating through files and on-screen menus
- Navigating through files and on-screen menus
- Maneuvering a mouse
- Backing-up and organizing files
- Using the Internet
- Attaching files to email
Online courses are not designed to teach you how to use software, manage files, navigate the Internet, or use email. Rather, you should have these skills before enrolling to ensure your success.
How many distance learning classes can I take in a semester?
It is strongly recommended that you begin by taking no more than one distance learning course. You will be learning the same amount of material as a traditional course. Therefore, you should expect to spend at least the same amount of time on an online course as a traditional course. The same is true for assignments.
How can I see a demonstration of Blackboard?
If you would like to view our demo site, go to the following Web page: http://bb.mwcc.edu. Click on “login.” Enter the word “demo” as the user name and the password.
How long do I have to complete a distance learning course?
Students have one semester to complete their course work. After a course has ended, students will no longer be able to access their course unless they have made special arrangements with the instructor. Courses follow the traditional academic schedule.
Can I register for a distance learning course anytime?
MWCC offers distance learning courses on a regular academic calendar (fall, spring, and summer.) No one can enter a distance learning course once the semester has begun unless they receive permission from the instructor.
What will I need for materials?
Courses may require students to purchase the following:
- Textbooks
- Publisher online content access codes
- Lab Manual
- Student Guides
- Course content CDs
To find out what materials are required for your course, please refer to your course syllabus. All materials will be available at the MWCC Bookstore at the main campus. If you cannot pick up your books in person, you may contact the bookstore at (978) 632-8238 to make alternate arrangements. When calling the bookstore, make sure you know your course number and section.
Do distance learning courses require any on-campus meetings?
Occasionally, some types of distance learning courses, such as lab sciences, require students to come on campus to complete labs. However, the majority of courses do not. If you are unsure if a course requires on-campus meetings, please call the Division of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development at (978) 630-9275.
What can I expect from my distance learning course? Are all distance learning courses taught the same way?
Distance learning courses give instructors academic freedom to create courses using their own teaching methods and styles. Although all the distance learning classes will have similar appearances online, the instructor may not have the same expectations. Just like a traditional course the student will be presented with a course syllabus. The course syllabus is a contract between the instructor and the student and should be read carefully in its entirety.
How do I access your distance learning course?
Once registered for the course, open your browser and go to the Web page provided by the college:
- Click the "login" button
- A pop-up screen will ask you for your user name and password. The college will supply these to you
- The next screen will be your home page and will list all courses you are currently enrolled in. To begin a course, click on the title of the course
You will access your course syllabus and all assignments through the Web site. You will also be able to use Blackboard to email your instructor and classmates, post and reply to questions and comment on the discussion board, submit research papers and assignments through the student drop box, and access external links that the instructor wishes you to view. Other features of Blackboard include the ability to create individual and group Web pages, a student calendar, and virtual a chat room.
Are distance learning courses more expensive than traditional courses?
The cost of a distance learning course is the same as a traditional course with the exception that there is a LEM (Lab, Equipment, And Materials) Fee on all distance learning courses. For more information on the actual cost of courses, see our Tuition and Fees Web page, refer to the college catalog or contact the Bursar's Office at (978) 630-9149.
I’ve decided that distance learning is for me! How do I register?
See our "Cost and Registration" page and follow the directions.