Myth: Online courses are easier than traditional,
face-to-face courses.
Fact: Online courses are at the very least
as rigorous as face-to-face courses. Students
are actually more challenged by online courses because they are in charge of
their own learning. Because a great part
of an online course is text based, there is a great deal of reading
required. Students need to go into an online class knowing that
the class will require as much if not more time and effort as any traditional
class.
Myth: Since there are no time or place limits, I
can do all of my assignments at one time and not really have to attend class.
Fact: It is true that students can access their
classes at any time and from any place where Internet connectivity is
available. However, online courses are
structured and organized so that content is delivered on a set schedule to ensure
active participation and maximum learning.
Students need to
go into an online class knowing that the class will require as much if not more
time and effort as any traditional class. Deadlines
for completing classwork are posted and expected to be met.
Myth: Since online classes are so flexible, it is
okay if I have to miss an entire week or two of class. I can always make it up when I return.
Fact: It is true that many people choose online
classes because of the flexibility, however, deadlines are deadlines. If a student misses turning in an assignment on
time, he/she will receive a zero.
Myth: Online courses are condensed versions of
traditional courses.
Fact: Online courses cover the exact same content
that a traditional course covers.
Myth: If my
computer breaks down, the instructor will have to excuse me from an assignment or at
least give me more time to complete it.
Fact: At registration, students are asked for a
back-up plan in case their primary computer malfunctions, they experience
other technical difficulties, or they travel during the semester. Students are expected to follow the back-up
plan when necessary so that they may continue their coursework. The need for an extension is a moot point. This type of critical thinking on the
student’s part is a necessary skill in dealing with technology in all facets of
life today.
Myth: Since I am taking an online course, the
school or the school system will provide a computer for me.
Fact: If the Virtual Campus course is taken outside
of the school day and, therefore, off campus,
the student responsible for providing the required technology. If the course is taken during the school day
as a normally scheduled class, the school will provide a computer station for
the student’s use.
Myth: My online course will teach me everything I
need to know about using the computer for this course.
Fact: Students must have prior skills in word-processing, e-mail,
Internet use and research. Because of the nature of online courses, the
student is expected to also have minimal typing skills. These are not skills that can be learned in conjunction
with taking the class. They are skills
that should be mastered before the class begins.
Myth: Because it is an online course,
I can be invisible and remain anonymous.
Fact:
All Virtual Campus courses have two discussion components: threaded discussion and chats. Both of these components are secure areas
from which only students registered for that particular class may access. Students are required to participate in
online discussions. Most students enjoy
getting to know their classmates through threaded discussions and chats. These discussions
allow for a exchange of ideas in which “shy” students
may openly speak up in a protective, non-threatening environment.
Myth: In an online class, there is no
teacher or the teacher doesn’t really interact with the students.
Fact:
All Virtual Campus courses have instructors. Instructors log on daily to check on
assignments and check for messages from students. Instructors contact students within 24 hours
of a question or concern.