What is an Online Class?

An online class shares many of the same features of  a traditional class:

• learning materials

• presentations

• assignments and homework

• due dates

• feedback

• quizzes and tests

The difference is that in an online class, these things are all done via the Internet.  For example, your teacher might send you information via e-mail and send you to a Web site to take a quiz.  You might meet with the whole class at a particular time, but usually you get to work on assignments when it is convenient for you. 

Many online classes use a management system such as WebCT or Blackboard.  These systems include discussion forums, e-mail, quizzes, grades, chat, and more.

back