Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS DISTANCE LEARNING?
Distance Learning is flexible learning, using telecommunications technologies to expand student access to college curricula and to provide more convenient learning options. Distance Learning at Peninsula College includes three different delivery technologies:

• Video Classes (Video Tape or Channel 21)
• Interactive Television Classes (ITV)
• Online Classes (WAOL & PC Online)

What are Online classes?
Online teaching and learning occur in a "virtual classroom." Students participate in classroom discussions online, submit their assignments online, and communicate with their instructor via email.

What equipment do I need for an online class?
Students need to have a Pentium level PC or a Macintosh equivalent with a minimum of:

• at least 8 MB of RAM
• Windows 9x or higher, or Mac Os 7.5
• 3.5 high-density floppy drive
• 28.8 modem (U.S. Robotics or compatible minimum)
• CD ROM drive with sound card
• Netscape 4.76 or Microsoft Explorer 5.1 or above
• Word processing software compatible with Word 95 or higher (must be able to "Save As" a Word 95 document)
• Access to the Internet

Are online classes easier than on-campus classes?
Student workload in an online class is comparable to traditional learning environments, and the successful distance learning student must be highly motivated. Students are expected to actively participate in discussions online, do research, submit regular assignments, and participate actively in scheduled activities.

How much time will I need to spend?
Course activities require approximately 12 to 15 hours/per week, five out of every seven days. Online classes have conventional start and stop dates; each course is generally 10 weeks long.

Can Running Start students take Distance Learning courses?
Running Start students may take any of the college's distance learning courses. Distance courses are treated no differently from any other of the college's courses. Students do need to verify with their advisor that the course(s) they are taking will fit their educational goals, just as they would with any other Peninsula College course. Not all courses fit all programs or transfer to all schools.

Does financial aid cover Distance Learning courses?
Yes, financial aid is available for distance learning courses. Contact the financial aid office for specific information.

How do I register for an online course?
Students may register for online courses through the same campus registration processes available for any other course: in person, by telephone, or online via Web registration.

How can I get an email account?
If you currently do not have an account, there are many free e-mail providers. Some popular choices are listed and linked below:

Hotmail
To get started, go to the Hotmail site and select the "Sign up now!" link at the top of the page and follow the site's instructions.

Netscape
To get started, go to the Netscape site, select the "Mail" button in the upper left corner of the page, then choose "Sign Up" to create a new e-mail account.

Yahoo!
To get started, go to the Yahoo! site, select the "Check Email" button at the top of the page, select the "Sign up now" link, and follow the site's instructions.

What about assignments, tests, and grading?
Each class and instructor has different requirements, which are clearly defined in the syllabus for the class. Contact the instructor with specific questions.