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Distance and Virtual Learning

The Department of Distance and Virtual Learning offers alternative modes of instruction to traditional classroom learning. Questions about alternative instruction may be directed as follows:

Registration questions - contact Admissions, A165, 217/351-2489, e-mail rwilhour@parkland.edu.

Technology questions - contact Distance and Virtual Learning, D109, 217/ 353-2342, or see online.parkland.edu.

Online Courses

In online courses, students interact with their instructor and classmates through the Internet. There are usually no campus visits required. Students who take an online class will read lectures, submit assignments, take quizzes, and do other course activities online. Parkland online courses follow the same semester schedule as traditional classes, and students are required to complete work each week.

Online courses are the most convenient delivery method at Parkland, but also require the most time, self-discipline, and time-management skills. Because students never attend class on-campus (except in special circumstances) they need to be extremely motivated to do well in the course.

Online students are expected to have good reading, writing, and study skills. Students must keep up with the class reading; must meet assignment deadlines; and must read assignments and directions carefully. Online students should have good computer and Internet skills. Students should feel comfortable using a browser, know how to save files from the Internet to a local computer, and then open them using a different software program.

Hybrid Courses

Hybrids are courses in which a significant portion of the learning activities have been moved online, and time spent in the classroom is reduced but not eliminated. Hybrid courses combine the best features of in-class teaching with the best features of online learning. Hybrid courses promote active, independent learning and reduce class seat time. Students are required to participate in class each week and to complete weekly coursework online.

Hybrid courses are designed for students who can be successful in online courses but wish to maintain personal contact with the instructor and other students. Hybrid courses are convenient but require more dedication and time-management skills than traditional classroom learning

Telecourses

Telecourses use video lessons that are broadcast on the Parkland Channel to deliver the lecture portion of the class. Textbooks, study guides, and in some cases online work is used to supplement the videos. Telecourse videos may be viewed on PCTV (Insight Cable channel 9) or by checking them out from the Parkland library or from area video rental stores and libraries. Success in a telecourse requires self-discipline, motivation, and independence.