Online Training

Goal of Distance Learning

Columbus Technical College The goal of Distance Learning is to provide a offers convenient alternative to the traditional on-campus method of instruction. Online and hybrid courses require you to be self-directed, independent learners with excellent time management and study skills. Students will use the Blackboard learning management system for assignment instructions, submitting assignments, and collaboration.

For many students, educational success is possible through an online learning environment. Online is best for students who are comfortable using a computer and who can work well independently or with limited supervision. This doesn’t mean fewer assignments or less one-on-one interaction with instructors and peers. Online classes require active participation and a solid sense of time management.

Columbus Technical College offers a wide variety of online courses allowing students to mix traditional and online courses to complete their academic programs. The College also offers a select group of academic programs completely online. The start and end dates for online classes are the same as Columbus Tech’s on-campus classes.

Sometimes referred to as “online learning”, “anytime… anywhere” or “pajama” learning, distance education provides students with the flexibility to pursue an education around the challenges of everyday life. While convenient for the student, online learning maintains the same level of rigor as its on-campus counterpart and usually requires more personal discipline and time-management skills.

The purpose of the Distance Learning Department is to assist the faculty, adjuncts, and staff of CTC in delivering online credit-based programs and courses that adhere to the Technical College System of Georgia’s (TCSG) program standards, accrediting agencies’ online policies, and the Georgia Virtual Technical Connection’s (GVTC) Best Practices for Online Courses, while upholding the mission, vision, and values of the college.

Online Learning

For many students, educational success is possible through an online learning environment.  Online is best for students who are comfortable using a computer and who can work well independently or with limited supervision.  This doesn’t mean fewer assignments or less one-on-one interaction with instructors and peers. Online classes require active participation and a solid sense of time management.

Columbus Technical College offers a wide variety of online courses allowing students to mix traditional and online courses to complete their academic programs. The College also offers a select group of academic programs completely online. The start and end dates for online classes are the same as Columbus Tech’s on-campus classes.

100% Online Programs

Columbus Technical College is always updating this list. For the latest, visit the Georgia Virtual Technical Connection website<https://gvtcapp.tcsg.edu/GVTC/General/Programs.aspx> and select Columbus Technical College in the college dropdown list.

Getting Started

If you think this is a real possibility for you, be sure you have a basic understanding of computers and the technical requirements needed for success, a regularly accessible (not public) computer, reliable internet access, and a Blackboard-supported browser<https://help.blackboard.com/Learn/Student/Getting_Started/Browser_Support>. CTC recommends using either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox as your web browser when working in the Blackboard LMS. If you are still comfortable with the requirements, students should review the instructions for logging into Blackboard via the Okta Portal<https://columbustech.blackboard.com/webapps/portal/execute/tabs/tabAction?tab_tab_group_id=_65_1>, Columbus Tech’s learning system. For more details on Online Learning, please call 706-649-1846 706-649-1748 or email abeveridge@columbustech.edu<mailto:abeveridge@columbustech.edu>. vclark@columbustech.edu<mailto:vclark@columbustech.edu>. The Director of Distance Learning also provides tier-two Blackboard support to students when the Computer Support Lab<https://www.columbustech.edu/academics/support/> is not able to resolve their Blackboard-related issues.

– Select this link to view our Distance Learning Procedure. (hyperlink the attached) – Select this link to view our Proctoring Procedure<https://www.columbustech.edu/app/uploads/2022/06/CTC-Procedure-Proctoring.pdf>.

– Select this link to view our Proctor <https://www.columbustech.edu/app/uploads/2022/06/CTC-Proctor-Approval-Application.pdf> Approval Application Form<https://www.columbustech.edu/app/uploads/2022/06/CTC-Proctor-Approval-Application.pdf>.

– Select this link to view our Portal Login Info<https://www.columbustech.edu/students/multifactor/>

FAQs

What are online courses?

An online course is one delivered over the Internet using web pages, e-mail, online discussion forums, etc. CTC online courses cover content like their traditional counterparts on campus. Instructors provide personal interactions through e-mail, discussion forums, or collaborative sessions.

How do online courses work?

CTC recommends using either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox as your web browser when working in the Blackboard LMS. Students “attend” online courses by accessing the Blackboard Learning Management System website and completing assignments according to the class schedule and syllabus. Online learning is NOT a go-at-your-own-pace situation. There is a schedule involved. Also, some instructors/classes may use additional book publisher sites and content specific to their courses. Refer to your course syllabus for details concerning any required sites or technologies. To see if your home computer can support the applications used in online learning situations, visit the Blackboard Computer Needs page<https://help.blackboard.com/Learn/Student/Getting_Started/Browser_Support>.

CTC recommends using either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox as your web browser when working in the Blackboard LMS. Students “attend” online courses by accessing the Blackboard Learning Management System website and completing assignments according to the class schedule and syllabus. Online learning is NOT a go-at-your-own-pace situation. There is a schedule involved. Also, some instructors/classes may use additional book publisher sites and content specific to their courses. Refer to your course syllabus for details concerning any required sites or technologies. Student Resources can be found here https://help.blackboard.com/Learn/Student/Original

Do I have to come to campus?

For the most part, no. However, instructors may schedule synchronous web conference sessions or special activities that must be completed on campus. Additionally, at least one major exam or graded activity will need to be “Proctored”, either on campus by your instructor, or by an approved third-party Proctor. Your instructor will inform you of this and other required campus meetings in the course syllabus. CTC will provide a form with required proctor information.

You may also make an appointment to see an instructor on-campus or communicate via e-mail or telephone. If you need face-to-face interaction, it’s strongly encouraged to make an appointment as opposed to dropping by.

Do I have to be online at a certain time each day (or week)?

This often depends on the instructor and his/her preferred style of teaching. The syllabus is always the best guide to answer what’s due and when. If you are unsure, our instructors are just an email away.

How do I register for an online course?

Transient students (those who are enrolled at another college besides Columbus Tech) may register for online courses through GVTC<https://gvtc.tcsg.edu/>. If you are a campus student, please contact the Academic Advisement Center at 706-649-1113 or aac@columbustech.edu<mailto:aac@columbustech.edu>.

How much does it cost?

Online courses cost the same as traditional CTC courses-they are priced according to the number of credit hours. What student services and resources are available? Online students have access to the same student services and resources as on-campus students. Please visit the Support Services page<https://www.columbustech.edu/students/support-services/> about all of our resources.

How quickly will my online instructor respond to my questions?

The course syllabus lists the office hours for each instructor. Instructors should respond immediately during the posted office hours and otherwise within one business day of the sent email message (Monday – Thursday). If your instructor will be unavailable or has expected delays (i.e. out of town, at professional development training, etc.), he/she will inform the class.

eCampus

Beginning May 17, 2021, Columbus Technical College will offer more began offering online courses through a new platform called “eCampus.” The eCampus platform allows students from across Georgia to enroll in online courses offered by any Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) college, providing students access to programs that may not be available at their home college. Upon completion of the eCampus course, students will earn credit at their home college.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there admission requirements for using eCampus?

eCampus is a delivery platform used by all Technical Colleges. The admission or placement requirements are determined by your college for all programs.

Does eCampus cost anything to use?

Standard tuition and fees cover the cost of eCampus.

How do I enroll in class?

Students enroll in a class using the college’s normal enrollment platform.

What technology do I have to have to use eCampus?

A device that connects to the internet and access to some form of web browser. Some courses may have more requirements such as software or other hardware.

If I don’t have access to the internet, can I still have access to this tool and its resources?

Yes. Colleges will provide access via local College internet on their campus and provide location information for Wi-Fi hotspots strategically placed within your community.

Does eCampus support real-time interaction, or only pre-recorded content?

eCampus supports real-time interaction.

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