Online Learning
What You Need to Pass Your online Classes
-Module 4-
Let's Get Started!
For information about this Module's objectives and how to get a certificate, click below.
Are you considering taking online courses
-or-
are you required to take an online class for your program?
That's Great!
Some key advantages of online learning are:
flexibility;
convenience;
no travel expenses; and
attending class in your pajamas.
However, online learning can be more challenging than it may seem.
Online courses require just as much, if not more, time and energy as in-person classes.
They also require computer skills and online learning strategies, in addition to reliable access to computer and internet resources in order to succeed.
If you do better with frequent and/or prompt interactions with an instructor or have challenges with time management or a specific subject (e.g., math, English), online or hybrid classes might not be the best choice for you.
OR
You can connect with your resources and immediately work with Pierpont's tutoring services and Learning Strategies to help increase your skills, which will help you succeed in online classes.
Contact: access@pierpont.edu 304-534-7878
Is Online Learning For You?
If you have a choice of taking a class either online or in-person, take time to see if online is the best way for you to learn. Ask yourself...
Are you a self-starter? If you have no problem getting places on time or meeting deadlines, then online classes can work for you. If you have trouble getting to your classes, doing tasks on time that you need to do, or putting things off (procrastinating), online classes might be a challenge.
Do you have strong time management and organizational skills? If you do, that will work well. If you do not, it might be difficult for you to sit down at the computer 2-3 times a week and meet deadlines without an in-person class structure where you have to show up.
Do you enjoy learning independently? If you like to do your own research, exploring questions instead of relying completely on the guidance and materials an instructor provides, setting your own goals and monitoring your progress, online classes may work for you.
Are you able to maintain focus in your classes? If this is difficult for you, in-person classes may be better as you will have fewer access to distractions.
NOTE: If you have a physical or psychological issue that interferes with your focusing, you may qualify for accommodations. Connect with Support Services access@pierpont.edu 304-534-7878
Do you have difficulty with a specific subject (ex., math, chemistry)? If you have trouble, for example, with math and math classes are required for your program, you might choose to take an in-person class for your math to get in in-person attention from your instructor and use tutoring services.
Are you comfortable asking for help? In in-person classes, the instructor is easily accessible and can connect with you when you seem to be struggling. Being able to reach out when you need help can be very important in online classes.
Pierpont's Resources
are available to all students taking online classes!
Tutoring, Learning Strategies, counseling, disability services, and more.
These can help with issues you may experience from the list above.
Online students have access to all of the College's resources.
Connect with Support Services for information
access@pierpont.edu 304-534-7878
resource information
Computer & Internet -Knowledge and Access
Regular computer and internet access (resources) along with basic computer and Internet skills are important for success in online classes.
Click below for more information.
Learning Independently
There is a part of Module 2 - Secrets for Success in College Part 2 about learning independently.
If you haven't read through that yet, click the link below to go there.
Remember...
Skills are things that can be learned.
Resources are things that you can find.
You can do this!
Important information
Know The Course Before You Register
Connect with a Pierpont advisor who can answer your questions and help you register for classes.
Sierra Spitzer shendershot@pierpont.edu 304-362-8162
-OR-
Nancy Parks nparks@pierpont.edu 304-367-4990
-OR-
Student Services 304-367-4907
Check out the content of the program and the classes so you know what is expected.
When you register for your classes, if a Pierpont staff member is helping you, ask them if the class is online.
If you are registering for your classes yourself using Course Scheduler, it usually provides this information.
Delivery, TBA, or Virtual On-Line Campus means that the class is online.
Hybrid classes are part online and part in-person. The in-person part can be in a campus classroom or on video.
To find out what classes need to be completed, check out your program in Pierpont's Catalog.
Go to Pierpont's website - www.pierpont.edu
Click on Catalog on the menu listing across the top of the page.
Open the dropdown menu by clicking the downward arrow to the right of Courses.
Click on Programs.
Type in the name of the program you are interested in and click on the magnifying glass.
This brings up a list of programs that match the words you typed in. Choose yours.
Scroll down until you see the list of classes under Required Courses.
While the general studies topic does not have "Required" in front of it like the Core Courses, but those classes are required, also.
How much time is involved in taking online classes?
"Just like in traditional classes, the workload varies – but don't expect your course to be easier just because it's online. Many online learners say they spend 15 to 20 hours a week on coursework. That workload, of course, may vary between full-time and part-time students," the difficulty of the course topic, and at student's familiarity with the topic prior to the class.
https://www.usnews.com/higher-education/online-education/articles/2018-01-16/how-do-online-classes-work-10-frequently-asked-questions#:~:text=Many%20online%20learners%20say%20they,load%20likely%20means%20less%20study.
netiquette
-Etiquette on the Internet-
Netiquette is a set of unofficial rules for good behavior and politeness followed by users of online and digital technologies such as the Internet, email, and chatrooms.
https://bowvalleycollege.libguides.com/c.php?g=10214&p=52001#:~:text=Netiquette%20is%20a%20set%20of,Internet%2C%20email%2C%20and%20chatrooms.
Since all of your interactions with instructors and fellow students will be online, learning the ins-and-outs of property interacting is important.
Click Below for more information.
bonus - More tips
Watching this video is not required for your certificate.
Video Link
mindset check
This is for your practice.
This does not need to be done to complete the module.
In a journal or on paper, write down a negative thought you have been having recently on the topics above or other topics.
Sit back, take a couple of deep breaths, and allow your body to relax. Then write down a positive (growth mindset) thought to counterbalance or counteract the negative (fixed mindset) thought.
Certificate of Completion Assessment
Module 4
Pierpont's Support Services
-Office of Disability Services-
If you have a disability and are registered with Pierpont's Office of Disability Services,
or if you have a disability and would like information