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Distance Learning FAQs
The PC AGE Advantage: PC AGE’s Online program is structured and scheduled, even while giving you the flexibility of pace and place, so you get the best of both worlds.
Comparison with Traditional Learning
Overall, PC AGE’s online students will spend about the same amount of time as in-class students do. But they can do it from anywhere whenever they have time available, and save time on commuting to the campus.
| Example |
Traditional Student |
Online student |
| Start Date |
Fixed |
Fixed |
| Mid-term test |
Fixed (at 2 weeks) |
Fixed (at 2 weeks) |
| Final test |
Fixed (at 4 weeks) |
Fixed (at 4 weeks) |
| Classroom and labs |
Fixed: 12 hours per week e.g. 3 evenings per week from 6pm-10pm at our campus |
Flexible: you will spend the same amount of time (approx. 20 hours per week) at our online classroom on the following: instructor lectures in the form of posts and presentations (audio/video), reading texts, online coursework, labs, research, homework, discussion, tests. |
| Homework and assignments |
8 hours per week |
| Total hours |
20 hours per week |
20 hours per week |
Please contact an admissions representative at 888-722-4360 for a detailed schedule.
How does Distance Learning work?
You will complete your course work by communicating with classmates and instructors entirely through an online environment. Each online course requires you to do all or most of the following on your own pace: a) reading assignments including the course book and/or online reading materials, b) homework assignments including research, c) hands-on labs, quizzes, and d) tests/projects. In addition to this course work, you are required to participate (answer the question) in the discussion forum related to the topics you are studying that week. Each online course has an instructor who posts lectures and is available to contact by e-mail. The instructor will have office hours during which he/she will be online to respond to questions immediately. Otherwise you can expect a response from your instructor within 24-48 hours (during a normal business week) of sending an e-mail. Once you login to your course you will see a number of different icons (e.g. Student Orientation, lectures, e-mail, course outline, chat room, discussion board, and assignment or submissions area).
For the duration of your course, there will be weekly lectures posted by your instructor. You will complete assignments that he/she assigns. To send assignments to your instructor, you will submit them through the assignment area (usually via e-mail). Email, chat room and discussion boards are available to stay in contact with your fellow classmates and for participation in your course.
Do I have to be online at a certain time of day?
No, for the majority of courses there is no specified time that you need to be online. However, you will need to login to your course a minimum of 3-5 times per week to see postings/lectures from your instructor.
What software will I be using?
PC AGE’s online program will be delivered using a platform called FirstClass. FirstClass is a client/server groupware, email, online conferencing and bulletin-board system for Windows, Macintosh, and Linux that is widely used by school systems and universities in the United States, Canada, and worldwide for delivery of both individual credit courses and entire degree programs. Groupware permits Intranet access to client from remote sites.
What if I need assistance or technical support?
Support for online students (technical, faculty, and student services) can be requested anytime. Technical support for FirstClass is available 24/7 by e-mail and phone. In addition, phone, web, and online chats are scheduled individually to accommodate student needs. Evening hours are available as needed.
Skills Needed for Distance Learning
As a distance learning student at PC AGE you will need to take an active approach to learning. You will require proficiency in accessing the Internet and in sending/receiving e-mail including attachments and must have internet access either at home or work or have access to PC AGE facility computers.
Additionally, the following skills will help you become a successful online student:
- Time management – you will be encouraged to develop and follow schedules for completing course(s).
- Self-discipline - you must schedule time each day to work on your course(s).
- Resourcefulness – you will be encouraged to use reference materials and to contact your instructors for clarification and assistance with assignments.
Why PC AGE?
PC AGE’s Distance Learning program has been designed as part of our mission to make quality education accessible to all prospective students. Since 1991 PC AGE has been a leader in providing innovative training solutions. Check out our program and courses.
To find out if Distance Learning is the right method of learning for you, contact a PC AGE admissions representative today at 888-722-4360 or email us at admissions@pcage.com. |
