Online Classes

Thinking of taking an online course? Before taking any online course read each of the FAQs below. If you are still confused contact Dr. Kao Vang @ kao.vang@rccc.edu.


Online Class FAQs

  1. What is an online course? One defining element of an online course is the lack of a physical classroom. Online courses do not require students to physically attend class in person. All class work is accomplished via the Internet and learning management systems such as Blackboard and Canvas. Like traditional courses, there are assignments, quizzes, and exams among other class activities but students simply complete the work from a remote location such as their home etc.

  2. Are there CMT online courses? We realized many working students find it difficult to attend class so while there are night classes offered, many CMT courses are also offered online. Online courses provide opportunities for students to take more courses not to mention have the ability to take courses wherever they may be. A good majority of the courses in the CMT program are offered online. These courses are listed below.

  • BPR 130, CMT 210, CMT 120, CMT 214, CMT 216, CMT 218, CST 241, and SST 140.

  1. Are there requirements to taking an online course? Yes. The college requires students to take a computer, reading and writing, and a math assessment after admission to the college. Students must schedule for the tests. Students interested in taking the test can do so by CLICKING THIS LINK. A certain computer test score is required to take any online course for the first time at RCCC. In addition, students must have a reliable access to the Internet and a PC computer. Students without a PC computer may encounter software inaccessibility for certain courses. Computer for courses such as ARC 225 should be fairly robust for this course is 3D intense. For this reason, a fast and current computer will be beneficial. Understand many construction related software may require a good computer graphics card, a large hard drive, and a fast computer chip processor. Students should consult with faculties within the CMT program prior to taking any computer courses taught within the CMT program prior to signing up for the class.

  2. How do I prepare myself for an online course? Online courses can be very demanding not to mention requires a great deal of focus for it is easy to lose track. Students who do not do well in online courses mainly do not do the work. If you are considering taking an online course make sure you are committed and plan on doing more than the minimum. To be successful students need to plan out their week ahead of time. Too often when students have a week to turn in work they feel there is unlimited time and often, find themselves struggling three (3) hours before deadlines. Make sure you plan well. Sometimes online courses require more time than traditional in-person classes.

  3. What are some technology fluencies for taking an online course? Student interested in taking an online course should be comfortable completing the tasks below.

  • Navigate the Internet without issue

  • Search the Internet for content

  • Download and upload files

  • Creating folders

  • Navigate learning management system such as Blackboard which is used by RCCC

  • Send emails

  • Navigate Adobe Acrobat Reader

  • Open multiple Internet sessions

  • Switch back and forth between computer applications and screens

  • Creating basic Excel formulas

  • Open and watch video contents


The CMT Program at RCCC offers many courses 100% all online for students requiring flexibility. Prior to taking any online course students should review the checklist below before signing up. While anything is possible, there are certain prior knowledge that will increase student success when considering taking an online course. Regardless of student choice, be mindful of the importance of completing EVA assignments for online courses. Watch the How To Videos below for more information.


Prior knowledge skills to be successful in an online course

Navigate the Internet successfully

1. Student can identify required URL address (www.rccc.edu) and type or copy and paste into the selected Internet browsers (Chrome, Bing, etc.)

2. Student can perform an Internet search.

3. Student can upload or downloading materials such as PDF files from the Internet.

4. Student can switch between multiple Internet browser windows back and forth.

Student can navigate personal computer (laptop or desktop) successfully

1. Student can troubleshoot minor computer issues such as no Internet connectivity, cannot access student Blackboard, etc.

2. Student can download and upload files to correct locations (Internet or on personal computer folders (windows folder) and locations (computer desktop etc.)

3. Student can navigate Acrobat Reader to open, save, and manipulate (rotate etc.) PDF files.

4. Student is beyond a novice user level for various computer software not limiting to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Email

1. Student can access, edit, send, or reply to emails.

2. Student can attach files to an email.

Have taken online courses outside of RCCC

1. Student have taken a class that utilizes Moodle or Canvas in middle and high school

2. Student have taken an online course at a 2-year community college or a 4-year university.

EVA Assignment (One of the important thing you must do when taking an online course)