The Online Experience
The Virtual Classroom
When it comes to earning a degree online, you can "attend" classes and complete your coursework from
virtually anywhere with a computer and an Internet connection. Each online platform may have different
elements and functionality; however, many common elements prevail. Below you will see elements used by
eCollege, a popular learning platform.
Simply Log In
All you have to do is log in to your virtual campus using a predetermined username and password. Your
virtual campus will typically have helpful links, phone numbers and chat capabilities for you to
communicate with various departments such as financial aid, academic advising and student support services.
View Your Course Listings
Once you are in your virtual campus environment, you may then access your course listing and enter your
virtual classroom.
View Your Course
You will discover how easy it is to access course information and academic materials, as well as
communicate with faculty and other students. Your syllabus and calendar of assignments is always in one
centralized place. You can post assignments within your classroom and access your grades when posted.
Participate in Discussion Boards
Discussion boards are a common tool used in online learning. The faculty member guides the discussion
while students communicate with each other and the faculty member by posting dialogue regarding content,
ideas, and opinions.
Converse Using Live Chat
Real-time communication usually takes place during scheduled seminars where Live Chat or Virtual
Classroom discussions are held. These provide an opportunity to interact with other students and faculty
at the same time.
You will find that, when compared to a traditional classroom environment, online learning offers the
opportunity to ask questions with less inhibition and more time to research answers. This allows you to
learn at your own pace according to your own learning style.
Online and Campus-based Learning Comparison
The differences between online and campus-based learning are outlined below:
As you can see, the differences between online and campus-based are few, while the advantages of online learning are increasingly beneficial.