
About Online Courses
As long as you have a computer and an high-speed internet connection, you are ready for class!
Courses are divided into units or modules that each last approximately one week. A clear schedule is given throughout the course to help you keep on track. Weekly activities can include:
- reading assignments
- a quiz or other form of assessment
- group/discussion activities
- written assignments
- additional media such as videos or podcasts
You log in to a course management system called WebCT/Blackboard to view the requirements and content items, then complete the activities according to the listed due dates.
Most of the courses are asynchronous, meaning that you can accomplish the weekly requirements at your convenience. This flexibility helps you handle schedule conflicts, as well as free time blocks for athletics, work, or activities. It helps you structure a schedule that fits your individual needs.
Active Learning
Studies show that effective learning takes place when students are meaningfully engaged with content, with peers, and with an instructor. You might guess that these three criteria are not met even in face-to-face lecture courses. Online courses at Cedarville strive to accomplish all three criteria in the best way possible. As a result, deep learning takes place.
Learning Outcomes
Studies also show that well-designed online courses accomplish the same learning outcomes as do traditional courses. The Center for Teaching & Learning at Cedarville University exists to ensure this quality of instruction across all course-delivery methods, be they traditional or online.
System Requirements
Sometimes technical issues will occur if you do not have the minimum system requirements. For Most courses, here are the standard hardware and software specifications to run an online course effectively;
- Windows XP or later (or Mac OS X or later)
- Internet Explorer 7.0 or later, or Firefox 2 or later (or Safari)
- High-speed internet connection preferred for fast course media downloads
- Current versions of Microsoft Office preferred, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (free download here)
- Adobe Flash Player (free download)