Distance Learning

DISTANCELEARNING

Distance Learning at BCC consists of educational opportunities in which any portion of instruction occurs when the student and instructor are not in the same place. In the case of interactive video, courses may be offered locally which would not otherwise be available, and in the case of web-based courses, opportunities are provided that help eliminate work, child care, transportation conflicts and problems. The roles of the student and instructor are different in a distance-learning course from traditional seated courses. The instructor becomes a facilitator, guiding students through the material. The student works independently and becomes an active learner taking more responsibility for asking questions, keeping on schedule, and completing and assignments. Students must complete orientation, assignments, and tests in a timely manner. Instructors interact with students and are available through one or more of the following methods: email or telephone, through course discussion forums or online chats, announcements, video conferencing or in-person. Instructors assign grades based on the current BCC grading system with no distinction made on the student’s transcript between distance learning and traditionally taught courses.

Password/Username Information

For complete login information, students should review the Student Technologies Orientation located at http://moodle.brunswickcc.edu. Click on the Student Technologies Orientation link in the right column or the Tech Orientation link at the top of the page to begin. The orientation contains information on getting assistance, Moodle, student email, Self-Service, and other topics and does not require the use of a username or password to gain access.

Online Courses

Online (or web-based) courses provide access to college courses via the Internet, anywhere, at any time, using a computer. An online course is an interactive class with an instructor and students primarily communicating via email, discussion forums, video conferencing, and online chats. These contacts are usually held at different times and in different places, or, in the case of online chats, same time but different places. The college offers its online courses through Moodle. BCC’s Moodle platform provides a user-friendly format and ensures that after taking one online course at BCC, a student will find a familiar layout for other online courses. Students taking online courses should have a computer and Internet access at home; however, students may use the computers on campus to complete their work. Moodle access is password protected and students only have access to courses in which they enroll.

Hybrid and Blended Courses

Courses that combine two or more types of instruction may be called hybrid or blended. These courses take many forms, and the exact format for each course will be explained at the first class meeting, orientation session, or on the semester Course Information Schedule. Most courses in this category combine required class meetings and web based instruction. For example, a course that traditionally meets twice a week may meet once a week and have assignments, reading materials, etc. on the web.

Course Supplements

All BCC courses (traditional as well as distance) have an online component that is accessible via Moodle. In addition, many textbooks have online supplements that may be required in various courses.

Technology Requirements

Many courses utilize video conferencing (using products such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams) and/or online test proctoring. Also, some assignments require a student to submit audio or video files to complete. A webcam with an integrated microphone is required in these situations. Most laptops include an integrated webcam and microphone; please check for this before purchasing a separate webcam/ microphone if you are using a laptop. Most webcams have microphone capabilities, so a separate microphone would not be needed unless the webcam you purchase does not have a microphone included. Please note that you may not be able to complete all assignments using a Chromebook due to the limitations of the Chrome operating system. For more information, please see the Student Technology Orientation on Moodle. Note: If the college is closed due to adverse weather or another emergency, instruction will continue using Moodle.