Distance Education

CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is an online course harder than a traditional course?: Some students find that the distance learning courses are more rigorous and require more preparation than traditional courses. Courses are structured so that the learning outcomes are comparable to those in traditional classroom settings. Students should consider their learning styles before undertaking an online course.

2. What equipment is required for an online course?: Windows 2000 with Internet Explorer 5.0, 5.5, 6.0 or Netscape Navigator 4.77 or 7.0 and Windows XP with Internet Explorer 6.0 or Netscape 7.0 are certified to work with the Blackboard 6.0 Learning System. Windows 95, 98, and Windows ME with Internet Explorer 5.0, 5.5, 6.0 or Netscape Navigator 4.77, 7.0 are considered compatible with the Blackboard 6.0 Learning System. Students' computers must have enough memory and disk space to support the operating system and browser used and any application software. Each course may require different software applications. View Course Requirements for a list of the courses and their software requirements.

3. How do I enroll in an online course?: If you are new to Robeson Community College, you need to complete an admissions application and have copies of your official transcript sent to the Admissions Office. If you have attended RCC but took a semester hiatus, you will need to update your application first. Once you have completed the admissions process and have taken the placement tests, if required, you will need to register for the courses. Registration for online courses is handled the same as fro traditional courses. Check the college's calendar for dates of registration.

4. When do online courses begin?: Internet classes begin at the same time as traditional courses. Check the college's calendar for teh beginning of each semester. Internet courses are not available until teh semester begins.

5. When do I come on campus for orientation?: Orientation for Blackboard is now online. Access Online Orientation to view this PowerPoint presentation. However, some instructors may require students to come to campus for a face-to-face orientation, especially for hybrid courses. Following registration, you will receive a letter in the mail indicating those dates.

6. Will I ever be contacted by my instructor?: Some instructors may require students to come to campus for face-to-face orientation, especially for hybrid coursees. Following registration, you will receive a letter in the mail indicating those dates.

7. How do I purchase my textbooks?: Textbooks for an online course are the same for a traditional course. Textbooks can be purchased from the RCC Bookstore. You may contact the bookstore directly regarding pricing and shipping of textbooks: 910-739-4289.

8. What if I have technical problems accessing Blackboard?: Any technical questions can be directed to the RCC's New Online Technicial Help Line. There is also a phone number for RCC students for more immediate assistance if online searching does not help you.

9. What happens if I forget my user id and password?: You can always view the orientation presentation once again or contact the online support site provided for RCC's Blackboard site.

10. What happens if I am not doing well in the course?: As with all RCC students, you can access the Tutorial Services or access one of the online tips sheets available through the Counseling and Career Center.