For Students

How does an online class work?

In a classroom you often learn by listening. Online courses are different. Instead of learning by listening, you will learn by doing- by reading, writing, and other learning activities designed by your instructor. In online courses, students "attend" class by accessing the class web pages and completing assignments according to the class schedule. Students communicate regularly with the instructor and classmates via e-mail and online discussion forums. This class format is very flexible for busy schedules due to the fact that many times you can log on to the course at any time of the day (or night). However, certain computer skills and a degree of determination (no procrastination) are necessary to be successful.

It comes as a big surprise to many online students that they actually have more contact with their fellow students online than they would in the regular classroom. This is because there are all kinds of ways for students to interact online: discussion board, email, group activities, etc. It can be fun to meet students - and it can also be a great way to broaden your learning experience.

Many online courses give more opportunities for personal feedback than you would receive in a traditional classroom. You will receive grades in your online course, but you might also encounter other kinds of feedback that might be new to you. For example, your fellow students might be reading and responding to your work. You might receive more comments than usual (both formal and informal) from your instructor.

Will I be a successful online learner?

Students learning online have a greater responsibility for their own success than students in traditional classroom settings. It is important that you have the self-discipline and self-motivation to work on a flexible schedule without getting behind.

It is also important for online students to be comfortable using e-mail, the World Wide Web, and word processors.

Attitude, skills and commitment determine whether a student will be a good candidate for the online experience. The student must be self-motivated, accepting of critical thinking, and willing to work collaboratively. Good written communication skills and a minimum level of technological experience are necessary. The student must be willing to commit the time necessary to stay current, and he/she must have access to the necessary equipment.

To learn more, download Is Distance Learning Right for You? (PDF).

How do I enroll in an online course?

There are two ways to enroll.

1. Stay enrolled at your school and take online classes.

Students can take 1 to 12 semester credits in an approved Online Learning (OLL) program or school and maintain their enrollment at their current school. The student’s current school is called the enrolling school and the OLL school is called the providing school. The enrolling school has the right to reduce the student’s instruction in proportion to the OLL courses taken.

To take classes online while enrolled in your current school you must first find a MN approved Online Learning Provider.* A list of approved providers can be found on this web site under members or on the MN Department of Education web site.

Once you have found an Online Provider that offers the classes you want, you must meet with your school counselor to discuss your options and plan how online course will fit into your graduation plan.

*Non-approved program courses may be taken through a district-to-district or tuition agreement.

2. Enroll in an Online Learning School.

If you are interested in enrolling full time as an online learning student look for an Online Learning school or program the offers a comprehensive course of study for your grade level. A list of enrolling OLL schools can be found on this web site under members. You may also call the MN Department of Education for additional information.

Contact the OLL school of your choice for the enrollment process. Students enrolling in a comprehensive full-time program must not be enrolled in a MN public school or must withdraw from their current school prior to comprehensive enrollment in an OLL school.