- What are the benefits of taking a course through online learning?
Nearly all online learning courses and programs take place via the Internet, linking instructors and students who are not together in a classroom. For those who do not have access to the Internet, printed materials may be requested. Most courses can be taken without coming to campus, and can be started anytime.
- How does an online learning course compare to the same course offered on the UW campus?
Just like the on-campus courses at the University of Washington, UW Online Learning courses and programs meet the highest standards of academic excellence. In a UW Online Learning course, you will work toward the same educational objectives and get the same quality instruction that you would in the on-campus course. Instructional designers have worked closely with UW faculty for each course, developing appropriate materials and methods to help you achieve course objectives in an online learning format.
- Do I have to register by the beginning of the academic quarter?
Some online learning courses start the day you register for the course. The courses are not quarter specific, and there are no late registration fees. Other courses have group-start dates and/or require some classroom meetings. Some courses will have start and end dates that coincide with academic quarters. Be sure to review your Enrollment Transaction Summary for these dates.
- How long do I have to complete the course?
An online learning course may be completed in three months or six months, depending on the course. The minimum time for completing a course is two calendar months. Your online learning course begins the day you register. You will find your start and end dates listed on your Enrollment Transaction Summary. See Online Student Handbook: Extensions for more information.
- Can I access a course at any time?
Yes. You will have 24-hour access to the online course for the specified length of the course.
- What are the technical requirements for taking a course online?
You must be able to access the Web using Internet Explorer version 5.0, or Netscape Navigator version 6.2, or higher. You must be able to send and receive e-mail. You must also allow your browser to accept "cookies," and must have the browser's Java and JavaScript features enabled. Requirements beyond this vary depending on the class.
Please note that America Online users have had problems accessing courses with the default AOL browser. You should use a separate browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator if possible.
- How do I get technical help while I'm taking the course?
Program Support Services staff help online learning students in such areas as online technical support, grades, instructional materials, and scheduling examinations. You can reach Program Support Services at 206-543-2350 in the greater Seattle area or 1-800-543-2320 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. (Pacific Time); 206-543-0887 (fax); 206-543-0898 (TTY); or dltechsupp@extn.washington.edu.
- How do I take examinations for an online credit course?
All examinations are proctored for academic integrity. You may take an exam at a UW testing site, a Washington state testing site, or another location under the supervision of a UWEO-approved proctor. See Online Student Handbook: Examinations for more information.
- Is online learning real University credit? Are the courses on the UW transcript?
Yes, Online Learning courses are considered university credit and will appear on the body of your transcript and affect your UW GPA.
- What happens after I register?
You will receive a Transaction Summary, instructions on how to log on to the course Web site, and any supplemental materials that may accompany the course. For some courses, you will have the option of purchasing a printed version of the course guide. Your materials are mailed 24 hours after you enroll.
