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INTERNET/ONLINE

Description

computer screen that reads WWWSelected academic courses are taught using the Internet to send and receive course information. Most courses are presented in Blackboard, a Web-based course management system designed to allow students and faculty to interact via the Internet. A few courses are presented on an instructor-designed website. In either case, students use the Web to participate in class and to use tools and links for class activities and assignments.

The majority of Internet courses do not require students to attend class meetings in person; however, some may have a limited number of on-ground requirements or synchronous sessions. Students can review in-person requirements prior to registration. Internet courses have mandatory participation deadlines and requirements.

Skill Level

Internet courses offer students additional and broader access to educational opportunities but they are not designed to teach computer or Internet skills. Before registering for an Internet class through Boise State eCampus, students are encouraged to complete a self-paced Blackboard eLearning tutorial. This tutorial is designed to introduce students to Blackboard, Learning Online, Internet Basics, Computer Literacy and Time Management. For more information see Introduction to eLearning.

Requirements for Students:

Be proficient in basic computer and Internet skills:

To be successful in an online class, students must navigate the Internet using a web browser; navigate among and between multiple open windows; open, close, and save files and attachments; and send and receive email attachments. If students do not have these skills, the instructor may administratively drop them from the course.

Have a mature learning style and the ability to stay organized and self-motivated:

Since online courses do not meet at a specified time each week it is important students establish a regular schedule for accessing the online course site multiple times a week to interact with others, complete assignments and review course materials. This requires an increased level of organization, commitment and motivation.

Possess effective written communication skills and the ability to understand written information and electronic communications:

Almost all interaction in an online course is through text. As such students must be comfortable reading, writing and communicating with others in a respectful way through text. Likewise, online courses can seem to take more time than in-person courses because it takes longer to read and write than it does to speak and listen.

Attend in-person class meetings, if they are required as part of the class:

Some Internet courses may require students to attend meetings or labs on the main Boise State campus or designated campus site. When registering online through BroncoWeb, be sure to read the “Details” information for each Internet class course to determine if there are any in-person requirements. If meetings are noted, they are mandatory, not optional.

Actively participate in class as required by the instructor:

Students can expect to have daily to weekly activities and assignments with strictly enforced deadlines. A discussion board is also often used for real-time discussion between the instructor and other students. If videos are required as part of instruction, actively participate by watching with little to no distractions and taking notes.

Contact the instructor independently via telephone or email in a timely manner with questions or problems:

Students must be comfortable asking for help when it is needed. If there is a question on an assignment contacting the instructor right away will keep you from falling behind. Remember, online instructors can’t see you and the only way they will know if you have a question is if you ask.

Frequently access the BroncoMail student email account assigned to every student at Boise State:

Prior to the start of course, an email is sent to each enrolled student’s BroncoMail email account. The instructor will provide important information concerning class startup, including instructions on how to access the course website, course requirements and student expectations. Students may need to check BroncoMail frequently for information from the instructor.

Possess a Boise State student identification number to access online resources and a student ID card for proctored testing, if required:

Students taking distance learning courses and living outside the Boise area can request a BroncoCard. See the BroncoCard website for more information.

Have reliable access to the minimum technology requirements:

Online courses require specific technology including:

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