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Prospective Student Information - Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Distance Learning!
What is Distance Learning (DL)?
According to the United States Distance Learning Association, Distance Learning is defined as "The acquisition of knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction, encompassing all technologies and other forms of learning at a distance."
Distance Learning courses provide flexibility and convenience to students. Many students today have family and job obligations that interfere with their educational objectives. Distance Learning courses provide an opportunity for students to meet their outside and their educational goals.
What types of Distance Learning courses are available at Blinn College?
At Blinn College, this type of instruction is provided through internet courses, blended courses, interactive video courses, or supplemental courses.
Online (Internet) Courses: Students work within a virtual classroom environment using eCampus, interacting with their instructor and fellow classmates using the tools within the virtual classroom. These courses are indicated in the course schedule using an "N" for the section number.
Blended (Hybrid) Courses: The course will typically meet once a week at the time indicated on your schedule. The remaining interaction will take place in an online classroom using eCampus. Students must attend class in addition to participating in the online environment. These courses are indicated in the course schedule using "B" for the section number.
Interactive Video Courses: The course meets according to the time indicated on the schedule. The instructor will be on one campus and teach students at the other campuses (i.e., remote sites). These courses are indicated in the course schedule using "V" for the section number.
Supplemental Courses: The course meets during the time indicated on your schedule. The instructors uses the learning management system to post additional information, such as lecture notes, presentations, discussion board, email, etc. The instructor may use it as little or as much as he/she would like.
What is the difference from taking a traditional class and taking Distance Learning?
Distance Learning courses have the same fee schedule, same tuition, same deadlines for admissions, same drop date, same start and end date (some summer internet courses are on the 10-week schedule), and same content as traditional courses.
Distance Learning courses are different in that courses do not typically meet (science courses, blended, interactive video, and supplemental courses excluded), interaction is through electronic means, some Distance Learning summer courses are 10-weeks long, and all internet students should fill out a student information form.
Are Distance Learning courses right for me?
If you aren't sure if Distance Learning courses are right for you, the READI assessment is a web-based tool which assesses your level of readiness for enrolling in Distance Learning courses. It assesses important attributes in online learning, such as self-motivation, time-management skills, self-discipline, persistence, availability of time, and ability to use a laptop, printer, software, and the Internet.
Are Distance Learning Courses self-paced?
No. Students have a syllabus that they must abide by. Reading assignments, homework, papers, and tests must be accomplished by a set date that is designated by your instructor via the course information sheet.
Are Distance Learning courses easier than traditional courses?
No. With regard to content, the same material is covered in the course. With regard to studying or reading, most things are done on your own without an instructor standing by for immediate assistance. Students that are not comfortable with this type of interaction should not take Distance Learning courses.
Are Distance Learning courses more flexible than traditional courses?
Yes and no. Distance Learning courses are more flexible than traditional courses because you do not have to attend class at a certain time each day. However, instructors still have deadlines for assignments and quizzes.
Are Distance Learning courses more demanding and more time consuming than traditional courses?
Distance Learning courses can be more demanding and more time consuming than traditional courses. For example, if you have a typical 3 hour course, you would spend 3 hours each week in class and approximately 9 hours outside of class preparing for the course. Because you do not meet in class for Distance Learning courses, you should plan on spending at least 12 hours per week preparing for your course.
If you are taking a Distance Learning course to "save time" or to add another class to an already full schedule, you may be overwhelmed.
Will my Distance Learning course count the same as traditional courses? Will it transfer to other colleges?
Yes, they will. Distance Learning courses do count like traditional courses. They will transfer to other colleges. However, you should consult the transfer site* or speak to an advisor to ensure that your course will transfer to your college/university.
What are the pre-requisites to take an online course?
Distance Learning courses have the same pre-requisites as traditional courses.
Where do I find the Distance Learning course schedule?
You may find the Distance Learning course schedule on BORIS* (Blinn Online Registration and Information System). Instructions are available for searching BORIS for both Internet and Blended courses.
How do I register for a Distance Learning course?
You register for courses through BORIS (Blinn Online Registration and Information System) or through telephone registration.
- After logging into BORIS, click on the Registration tab.
- Choose the term for which you are registering.
- Click Load Registration.
- Once your registration is validated, click Add Class.
- In the Add Call # box, type in the call number for the course you wish to add to your schedule. If you do not know the call number, click on Find Class.
- Once you have typed in the call number, click Process Add.
- The course will be added to your schedule.
- Make sure you click Save All Work and Quit or your changes to your schedule will be lost.
What is the Virtual College of Texas (VCT)?
The Virtual College of Texas (VCT) is a collaborative of community college districts and the Texas State Technical College System. Students may register through their local college to take distance learning courses from other colleges throughout Texas.
The procedures for VCT are located on the Distance Learning VCT page.
How much do Distance Learning courses cost?
Distance Learning courses have the same fee schedule and same tuition as an on campus course.
Do Distance Learning courses have enrollment limits?
Distance Learning courses are instructor-led and do have enrollment limits. To ensure that you get the courses you want, make sure you register early and you pay on time.
What are the technical requirements for taking a Distance Learning course?
Technical Information can be found on the Technical Requirements page.
Where can I get more information?
A General FAQ is available to you. In addition, you may explore the links located under the student area of the web site.
Page Last Updated:
February 16, 2010
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