Distance Learning Policy
Distance learning is defined as a formal educational process in which the majority of the instruction (interaction between students and instructors and among students) in a course occurs when student and instructor are not in the same place. Distance learning focuses on utilizing technology and teaching methods to provide instruction to students outside the regular classroom and thereby increase flexibility and scheduling options. Two types of distance learning courses are offered by Enterprise State: hybrid and online.
- A hybrid course is one in which a majority of instruction is delivered in a structured alternative delivery format including, but not limited to, the internet and/or other off-campus formats. Enterprise State identifies hybrid courses in the course schedule.
- An online course is one in which instruction is delivered entirely online through Canvas, a learning management system. Although the course content is delivered entirely online, students may be required to take one or more exams in the Testing Center on campus or at an approved testing location.
- Both hybrid and online courses require a reliable and current computer and internet access, preferably high-speed. Additionally, distance learning courses require computer literacy and reading comprehension skills, as well as self-discipline and motivation. Students register for distance learning courses in the same way they register for traditional courses. For additional information, please visit our website at escc.edu.
Most research indicates that taking online courses is similar to taking independent study courses. Students must be self-starters, capable of working independently, and willing to take full responsibility for their own learning.
- Our goal in offering distance learning courses is to allow students (learners) to receive quality instruction regardless of the time or location.
- If the student can answer “yes” to all of the questions below, then online courses might be a good choice. Any “no”answers should be remedied before taking any online courses.
- Are you independent, self-motivated, and self-disciplined?
- Can you set and follow a schedule without supervision?
- Do you have above average oral and written communication skills?
- Can you read and follow complex written directions well?
- Can you independently solve complex problems well?
- Can you use computers and the Internet with ease?
- Do you have easy access to a computer with Internet access?
To achieve the greatest level of success, students need easy access to the internet other than through ESCC’s campus computers. Student computers should meet the following minimum specifications:
- Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
- 56.9Kb modem or better
- Windows or MAC Operating System
- Microsoft Office Suite 2016 (Office 365)
All online courses require at least one proctored exam. Depending on the proctoring method students select, students may incur a proctoring fee. See the ESCC Proctoring Policy.
Enterprise State Community College is committed to protecting the privacy of all students using our learning management system, Canvas, for our online courses.
Attendance: “No Show” Definition for Distance Education Courses: For a distance education course, a “No Show” student is one who has never actively participated in the course. Active participation is defined as completing the Attendance Verification Quiz for each online course in which the student is enrolled. The Attendance Verification Quiz must be completed by noon on the 5th calendar day of each semester. Logging in to the course of sending an email is not considered active participation.