Online Learning

Online learning (or distance education) is growing at a rate that far out-paces on-site enrollment in higher education. Over the past year, the number of students taking at least one class online has grown to 1.9 million, representing 22.9% growth over 2003.*

As online learning increases in popularity, its reputation for academic quality also is increasing. Students, faculty and university administrators are learning firsthand that online learning gives students all of the advantages of a traditional brick-and-mortar college, with the added benefit of being able to complete classes when and where it's most convenient.

As an online student you'll have access to:

• Books, handouts, and other learning materials
• Faculty
• Other students
• Student Services including advisors, financial aid and registrar services

The Online Learning Experience

Typical online learner attributes - Excellent time management skills, technologically-savvy, busy lifestyle, independent learner.

Types of activities - Students taking online courses are exposed to a variety of classroom activities to ensure that the delivery of course content is communicated clearly. Activities include: Chat room discussions, email, bulletin board postings and discussions, audiobridge teleconference calls, and interaction with teams.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous activities - The majority of activities completed in the online format are asynchronous, meaning that students begin and finish assignments at a time that best fits their schedule. Assignments have a set

"due date" and students are responsible for sending in assignments as they are completed. Synchronous activities are assignments that students complete together simultaneously (i.e. group chat sessions and conference calls). Synchronous activities make up a small portion of online learning.

Whether on-site or online, working for students is always our first priority. We work hard to ensure that our students receive a high-quality education, and the benefits of our Virtual Campus lets us remove the barriers to education for the busiest students in even the most remote location.

*"Entering the Mainstream: The Quality and Extent of Online Education in the United States, 2003 and 2004," as reported by The Sloan Consortium