Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Internet course?

An Internet course is conducted almost entirely via the Internet. Sometimes the course includes video programs.

Do I have to come to campus?

Some online courses require attendance at on-campus workshops. Instructors conduct these sessions and provide valuable information about course assignments, examinations and grading. Some courses may require on-campus proctored testing.

Will I need materials for the course?

All curriculum and most continuing education courses require textbooks. Some courses may require other resources such as CD-ROMS's, videos, or study guides

How do I get the required videos?

Some online courses require that students view videos which are an integral part of the course. Videotapes are available for check-out through the RCC Library. Students must have a library card in order to check out tapes. Students are responsible for returning all videotapes to the RCC Library by the last day of the semester. All tapes must be returned in good condition. For more information on acquiring the videos of your course contact Debbie Luck for assistance.

How do I contact my instructor?

Instructors are available by E-mail or phone, and some may have on-campus office hours. The course syllabus will indicate the best ways to contact your instructor.

How do I take tests?

Many courses incorporate online testing, however, some require on-campus proctored testing.

How do I receive my grades?

Grades are usually mailed to students to ensure that all grades are kept confidential. Grades cannot be given out over the phone or faxed.

Will I receive credit for the course like a traditional on-campus course?

Credit for all distance education courses is identical to on-campus courses.

How good do my computer skills need to be?

For courses delivered via Internet, basic computer skills are essential. If you are a beginner, online courses may not be the best option. You may want to ask yourself the following questions to see if online courses are for you:
• Do you have access to a computer with Internet connectivity at least two days a week?
• Can you use a Web Browser to navigate the Internet (i.e., "BACK" button, bookmarks/favorites)?
• Do you have an email address?
• Do you know how to send and receive email messages?
• Do you know how to attach a file to an email message?
• Do you know how to "paste" text from a word processor into an email message?
• Can you create, save and manage files on your computer?
• Can you download software?
• Can you use a search engine to conduct research on the Internet?
If you can answer "YES" to four or more of these questions then an online course is probably a good choice for you.
For a definite answer go ahead and Create Your Online Learning Account. One of the account's benefits is a free demonstration course where you can experience online learning first hand.

What type of computer should I have?

Students taking courses via the Internet should have access to:
A computer with
• Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, ME, XP, Linux or Macintosh OS operating system software
• 64MB of RAM (minimum)
• 3GB hard disk drive (minimum)
• Netscape Communicator 4.79, Internet Explorer 5.5, Mozilla 1.0, or Opera 5.0.
  Later versions of these browsers are also acceptable.
• Realplayer 8.0 or greater
• Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or greater
• Word Processing software

What if I have trouble with the software used for the online courses?

There are answers to many common problems in the Technical Information section of this site. Technical support is provided throughout the course by e-mail or phone.

What if I still need help after trying all these options?

There are numerous on-campus Help Sessions for online Students throughout each semester. Check the Semester Schedules listed on the Virtual Campus Homepage for convenient day and time.