Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s online learning like and how is it different from
face-to-face learning?
Online education courses are similar to face-to-face courses in
quality, objectives, credits and learning outcomes. They use a different
methodology by using the Internet, instead of or in addition to a
classroom. Instruction is
delivered primarily asynchronously (i.e., where the teacher and learner
are not physically at the same place at the same time). Students work
with materials either on their own or in discussion groups. They
interact directly with each other and with the faculty typically through
e-mail, threaded discussions (online discussion boards), chat and
web-based whiteboard facilities, and sometimes through voice or video
communication during synchronous sessions. UW-La Crosse Online offers a
highly personal and interactive learning experience.
How do I receive and hand in assignments?
UW-La Crosse uses Desire2Learn (D2L) as our course management system.
All readings, work sessions, assignments and other tasks are
pre-specified and monitored on a continuous basis. Most written assignments
and exams will be received via D2L and will be submitted using D2L.
Access to grades and feedback from instructors are provided online.
How do I interact with my instructor and peers?
Students interact with their instructor on a regular basis using e-mail,
threaded discussions or online chat rooms. Students post comments on questions in response to their
instructor or to their peers. Students can read and post comments any
time during the day. On some occasions, discussions may also take place
in 'real time' through D2L 'chat' facilities. Chat participants talk to
each other 'live' by typing messages back and forth.
What time are classes held?
You can participate in course discussions at any time, day or night,
wherever you have an Internet connection. Not all of your course work
requires you to work online—much of your writing, and project work can
be done offline. Most people enter the online classroom multiple times
each week to participate in discussions, but there is often no set class
schedule so you can “attend class” any time of day.
How much time should I reserve?
Time varies depending on such factors as pace of
reading and typing, and prior knowledge of the subject. The total time
to complete an online course (e.g., studying materials, attending
lectures online, interacting, completing assignments) is usually
equivalent to that of an on-campus program. You have the extra
flexibility to 'attend class' (e.g., read materials, watch lectures on
your PC, interact in web-based discussions and complete assignments)
whenever you want during the week.
How will I be graded?
Your instructor is available to assist and guide you in your learning
and answer your questions throughout the course. Each course will have a
syllabus which outlines the assignments, requirements and the grading
criteria for the class. Grading takes place in a similar manner to
traditional, classroom-based education. The only difference is that most
assessment activities are web-based. You complete assignments and take
exams online.
Who is teaching?
Our courses are usually taught by the same professors who teach on
campus – typically faculty members of UW-La Crosse, with
postgraduate degrees and distinctions for their research and expertise
in the subjects they teach. They follow the same curricula, standards
and accreditation as our programs on campus.
How many people are in a class?
This varies depending on the course, but the number is usually not much
different from what you would expect from most traditional classroom
settings.
Do classes have specific start and end dates?
Yes, most online courses operate on a semester or intersession (J-term,
summer) schedule. Though you can
complete course assignments during the hours that work best for you on a
day-to-day basis, you will be required to finish the course within the
allotted time period.
What courses do you offer?
Our online classes are listed alphabetically and by semester. It is
continually being updated and is your most up-to-date source of
information on courses.
Will I have to be admitted to UW-La Crosse to take courses?
Anyone taking a course from UW-La Crosse must be admitted either as a
degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking student. Please visit the
Admissions Office
for more information.
How and when do I enroll in online courses?
Registration information and timetables can be found at our
Records and
Registration Web site.
How can I access the library?
Students taking UW-La Crosse online courses are provided access to the
same resources as traditional on-campus students. This includes full
access to UW-La Crosse’s
Murphy Library.
How can I order books?
UW-La Crosse’s bookstore includes online ordering. For more information on
ordering books, please visit our
UW-La Crosse Bookstore.
What are the computer requirements for taking an online
course at UW-La Crosse?
Typically, a configured personal computer, access to the Internet and a
UW-La Crosse e-mail account is all you need. Applicants may use our
automated
D2L system check or read our technical requirements at
ITS Support for more
information. Please review these computer requirements carefully.
How much does it cost?
Tuition and fees vary by program. Please be sure to check the program or
course of study Web site for current costs. For questions or assistance
determining tuition costs, please contact the
Admissions
Office.
Is financial aid available?
Students who are admitted to UW-La Crosse and are enrolled at least
half-time can receive partial aid. Full-time students are eligible for
full financial aid consideration. Please visit
Financial Aid for more
information.
What student services are available?
Through UW-La Crosse Online, you have access to all the services a
student on-campus receives and expects from an academic institution.
Please visit our
Student Life
Web site for services availbale.
