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distance and continuing education
We
encourage you to consider the following thoughts
as you decide to enroll in a distance education
program. Please contact us as you contemplate
your decision, especially if you have questions
about the topics discussed on this page.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about
Distance Education
What is distance education?
Distance education is the opportunity
to earn college credit or a degree by completing
course work from the convenience of your home,
business, office, or community learning center.
How do I access distance education?
Anyone can take a course from
just about anywhere with access to technology
such as videoconferencing, the Web, CDs, e-mail
or Blackboard, an electronic course management
system.
What kind of equipment will I need?
You'll need access to the Internet,
the library online and e-mail. You also may
need a computer with a CD drive. Here are some
other things to consider: You'll need a backup
in case the computer you are using malfunctions.
If you share a computer with someone, you need
to have adequate access to it.
What do I need to know to participate?
Minimal skills you'll need include
word processing and knowing how to navigate
links on the Web, post messages, send e-mail,
cut and past documents, and saving and back
up files.
How do distance education course compare with
traditional classes?
In distance education, you'll
have to take more responsibility for learning
since you will be working on your own and won't
have direct access to the instructor. Plan to
spend as much time on your distance education
course as you normally would in the traditional
classroom. You'll also spend as much time studying
as you would for a traditional course.
Is distance education the right option for me?
Since you won't meet face-to-face
with an instructor, you should be motivated
to learn by reading and writing and have the
self-discipline to work on your own. Although
the instructor will help you, you also must
be able to take the initiative when you have
a question or technology problem, need to find
resources or want to confirm that you understand
the course content.
Am I comfortable communicating electronically?
You will have limited oral interaction
with teachers and classmates, so you'll need
to decide if you are comfortable discussing
your work or asking questions by e-mail.
Considering these points carefully
will enhance your distance learning. Please contact
us if you have any questions.
Return to Distance and Continuing Education page.
Dr. James
R. Venette
Associate Dean
for Academic Programs
315 Morrill Hall
Fargo, ND 58105
701-231-8790
Fax: 701-231-8520
deancoa@ndsuext.nodak.edu
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