What to Expect in an Online Course

Are you exploring the idea of enrolling in an online course, but aren’t sure what to expect?  Would you like to learn more about online courses in general?  Although online courses may differ between subject areas and instructors, we’ve provided an overview for you here.  The article below explains what you may experience in an online class.

Similarities

There are similarities between an online course and a traditional brick and mortar course.  Below are a few of the commonalities.

  • Content – The course content will be quite similar. If a course is offered both online and in a traditional classroom, you can find that the content will be similar.  Although activities and interactions may differ, you should expect to cover the same objectives in both modalities.
  • Time Commitment – The general rule of thumb is that each credit hour of a traditional semester college course requires 2-3 hours per week.  For example, if you are taking a 3-credit course during a traditional semester, you should expect to spend a minimum of 6-9 hours each week on that course for the duration of the course.  If the course is more challenging or if you have exams or projects due, you may spend upwards of 12 hours per week on that course.  Expect to spend significantly more time each week if the term is less than the traditional semester.
  • Syllabus – You will receive a syllabus and be expected to be familiar with course processes, procedures, and expectations as outlined in the syllabus.
  • Instructor – You will have an instructor for your online course. Instructors may run courses differently, but you can communicate, ask questions, and receive feedback from your instructor.
  • Course Materials – You will use similar resources in an online course as you would in a traditional course. For example, you may have a textbook and supplemental materials in both course delivery options.  However, you may utilize some of the materials differently.  For instance, in an online class, you may discuss an article in small groups in the classroom.  In an online course, for example, you may discuss that same article via a discussion board or through collaborative software.

Online Courses

You may notice similarities between an online course and a traditional classroom course.  You may also experience a few differences.

  • Learning Management System (LMS) – Rather than meet in a traditional classroom, your online course may be organized and managed through an LMS. The LMS is an online repository of course materials.  In most cases, you will find the syllabus, course readings, assignments, and other course information in the LMS.  In addition, most instructors provide LMS navigation information so that you can quickly learn how to maneuver through the course efficiently and effectively.
  • Structure – Online courses generally follow a repetitive, predictable pattern. The instructor will share the course processes with you in the syllabus and/or online course calendar.  You can see examples of two different courses below:
    Day Task – Course 1 Task – Course 2
    Monday Readings Readings
    Tuesday Homework Video
    Wednesday Respond to discussion board prompt Homework
    Thursday Quiz Quiz
    Friday Respond to classmates’ discussion board posts Reflection Essay
  • Flexibility – A traditional class may meet at the same time 2 or 3 days per week. Some online classes operate in this manner.  Instructors may expect online students to be available for live sessions on a regular basis.   Other online courses operate differently.  Other online courses may have lectures and assigned materials, but you can watch a pre-recorded video lecture or complete an assignment when it is convenient for you.  In an online course, you will still be responsible for specific deliverables, but, in many cases, you can work through these tasks at a time that works for your schedule.
  • Communication – You can communicate with your instructor and classmates in an online class through the LMS, e-mail, or other collaborative software. You will still be able to ask questions and receive clarification, but you will use technology to communicate.
  • Access to Instructor – Instructors are expected to maintain a presence in an online course. This means that schools expect instructors to engage in conversation, provide feedback, and share information with students on a regular basis.  You will still have access to an instructor, but the access will be through technology.
  • Questions – If you have questions while you are working through your online course, you can ask your instructor. You can also utilize additional resources such as tech support or the Department of Online Studies, for example.  There are resources available to you.  These resources are designed to support you as a student and to support your online learning experience.

Online courses offer an educational option to meet the needs of many learners.  As you can see, online courses can be similar to traditional courses, but there are differences as well.  Online courses follow the same rigorous standards as their brick and mortar counterparts while using technology to assist with course organization and communication.