Online courses are a convenient and flexible way to bring education right to your home. This allows you to get that education while continuing to work, care for your family or any other activity that makes it difficult to get to campus. Online courses can also save you money by eliminating the cost of driving to campus, eating out and child care.
If you are considering enrolling in an online class at NCMC, please read the following material carefully.
Two questions you need to answer.
- Is online learning for me?
- Is the course I want offered? See our Course List to find out what we are offering each semester. To learn more about the class, it’s requirements, test-taking and get answers to the questions you have, click the course instructor’s name and e-mail your request.
Are Online Courses Right for You
Online Readiness Quiz
If you can answer “Yes” to most of these statements then you’ll do just fine in an online course. If you answered yes to fewer than 15 of these statements, you may want to rethink your reasons for wanting to enroll in an online course or enhance your skills in those areas before enrolling.
- I need the convenience of a flexible schedule.
- I consider myself well-organized and a good time-manager.
- I enjoy reading.
- I enjoy working independently.
- I usually complete homework and assignments on time.
- I am comfortable asking for clarification or for assistance if I need more information.
- I would be comfortable communicating primarily through a text-based medium.
- I am willing to spend 9 – 12 hours a week on an online class.
- I enjoy learning new skills and technologies.
- I have a computer at home with an Internet connection.
- I have an Internet e-mail account.
- I have a printer and have no problem printing course documents from the Internet or from a word processing file.
- I can easily perform the following tasks using a word processing program such as Microsoft Word: open and close files, create and save new files, copy and paste information between different documents, and save files in different file formats.
- I know how to use a search engine such as Yahoo or Google to find information on the Internet. I also know how to bookmark a web page or “Add to Favorites” so I can return to that page.
- I am familiar with navigating through a website which provides navigation buttons and links.
- I am comfortable performing all of these tasks: sending and receiving e-mail, sending and receiving e-mail attachments, uploading and downloading files.
- I know how to protect my computer from viruses.
- I know how to enable Java and Cookies in my Internet browser.
- I could download and install a new Internet browser, service packs, or plug-ins if needed for an online course.
While Online courses are flexible and convenient, they will require you to be an independent, active learner who is motivated, disciplined and has good time-management skills. Because Online classes are text-based (no spoken lectures) more time will be needed. You will be reading your lecture materials instead of listening to an instructor, you must type messages to communicate with your instructor and other students. Your participation in class will be through e-mail, online discussion, Brightspace or Academic Systems Corporation.
What is Brightspace?
Brightspace is a web-based learning management system which allows students and faculty to participate in classes delivered through the Internet. Blackboard enables instructors to provide students with course materials, discussion boards, online quizzes, and a variety of academic resources.
Academic Systems Corporation
Academic Systems Corporation provides Interactive Mathematics, an award winning multimedia instructional resource that actively engages students in learning and applying mathematics. It provides comprehensive, flexible instruction in Pre Algebra, Elementary Algebra, Intermediate Algebra and College Algebra.
Tips for Success
- You should have access to a computer, Internet access, and an Internet e-mail account before the semester begins. See System Requirements for more information.
- You are responsible for maintaining your own computer. If you experience problems during the semester you can use the computers in the Library or the computer labs on campus to complete assignments.
- If you have not had much experience with computers or the Internet it might be helpful to take a computer course before you take an online course. Go to the Course Schedules to view class offerings.
- Purchase textbooks and other course materials before the semester begins. Textbooks can be ordered from the Bookstore by calling 1-660-359-3948, ext. 1506. You will need to provide your Course Number(s) and credit card number (Master Card or Visa) or debit card number as well has shipping address. Textbooks will be shipped via UPS.
- Log in to your online course as soon as it becomes available — the first day of the semester!
- READ all course information and the course syllabus — it has important information about class requirements and your responsibilities as a student.
- Contact your instructor right away to introduce yourself, let them know which online class you are taking, and ask any questions you might have about the class.
- Submit assignments early to avoid falling behind. It is easy to procrastinate when you don’t have to turn in your work in person.
- Be prepared to work hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking an online class is easier than a face-to-face class. Online learning requires the same study skills and a real commitment to be self-motivated and self-disciplined.
- Commit as much time, if not more time, to your online course as other courses you are taking. You should be willing to spend 9-12 hours a week on your online class. Schedule your “class time” just as if you were physically going to class on campus.
- In an online class nearly all communication is written. You should feel comfortable expressing your ideas and opinions in writing. Also be considerate of other students’ comments — all students should feel valued to create a positive online learning community!
- Use the library and other available resources — online learning provides access to a variety of online resources and tools.
- Log in to your course a minimum of 3-5 times a week.
- Read the textbook(s) and complete all assignments in a timely manner.
- Expect to use critical thinking and problem-solving as part of the learning process. Think your ideas through before responding to online discussions.
- Keep copies of all materials you submit for grading!
- Stay in touch with your instructor — ask questions if you don’t understand.
- Allow a reasonable amount of time for your instructor to respond to e-mail. Most will try to respond as soon as possible or at least within 48 hours.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your instructor is there to instruct, but unlike a face-to-face class they can’t see if you are confused, bored, or frustrated. Let them know if you do not understand or need clarification.
- If you have a problem the first person to contact is your instructor. If they can not answer your question, they will direct you to someone who can.
- If you are interested in tutoring services, contact the Academic Resource Center at 660-359-3948, ext. 1334.
- Be CONFIDENT and plan for SUCCESS!!
What’s Next?
If your answers to the questions above show that you are likely to succeed in an online course and you decide you want to take one, you will need to do the following:
Contact the NCMC Admissions Office to be admitted to the college.