WHAT IS ONLINE LEARNING?
Online or Distance Learning takes place when an instructor and students are separated by physical distance and various technologies are used to bridge the instructional gap. We offer distance learning courses and programs in three basic formats: online, hybrid, and compressed video.
1. Online: uses the Internet exclusively to connect with learners and does not have any activities that occur at a single specified physical location. Content and instruction is online using synchronous (opportunities for communication at the same time) and/or asynchronous (no opportunities for interaction at the same time) delivery.
2. Hybrid or blended: uses the Internet for a portion of learning activities in lieu of traditional classroom hours. In addition to online content, the course requires supplementary learning activities that occur at a single designated time and specified physical location. Typical learning activities include periodic face-to-face lectures, lessons, or lab activities.
3. Compressed video or interactive video conferencing: meets on campus in a special distance learning classroom. A typical distance learning classroom is equipped with multi-way audio and video technology which includes a large display for student viewing, computer for instruction, document camera, DVD player, and phone/fax for support. Students may be at a physical location for instruction that is different from where their instructor is facilitating the lesson. For example, the instructor may meet face-to-face with students at the Middletown Campus and at the same time conference with students at the Fauquier Campus.
1. Online: uses the Internet exclusively to connect with learners and does not have any activities that occur at a single specified physical location. Content and instruction is online using synchronous (opportunities for communication at the same time) and/or asynchronous (no opportunities for interaction at the same time) delivery.
2. Hybrid or blended: uses the Internet for a portion of learning activities in lieu of traditional classroom hours. In addition to online content, the course requires supplementary learning activities that occur at a single designated time and specified physical location. Typical learning activities include periodic face-to-face lectures, lessons, or lab activities.
3. Compressed video or interactive video conferencing: meets on campus in a special distance learning classroom. A typical distance learning classroom is equipped with multi-way audio and video technology which includes a large display for student viewing, computer for instruction, document camera, DVD player, and phone/fax for support. Students may be at a physical location for instruction that is different from where their instructor is facilitating the lesson. For example, the instructor may meet face-to-face with students at the Middletown Campus and at the same time conference with students at the Fauquier Campus.