Studying On-line
How is online studying different?
Can I take a course in this program if I do not have a bachelor's degree?
Since I am not very skilled with computers, will I have problems taking classes online?
How do I interact with my professors?
What is Wimba Classroom and how do I learn to use it?
How important are writing skills in an on-line course?
My question is not answered here, how do I find out more about studying online at UMass Boston?
How is online studying different?
The major difference is your location. You do not have to travel to the campus. You can participate in your course from your home, office, or while traveling. You do, however, have the same access to the excellence of UMass Boston professors/instructors as do those physically on campus. Online courses include exercises, projects, and collaborative assignments. The rich learning environment features tutorials and courses with audio lectures, photo materials, discussions, chat rooms, readings, illustrations, and video.
Can I take a course in this program if I do not have a bachelor's degree?
Advanced undergraduate students may be able to take one or more of the courses, but must obtain written permission from the instructor prior to enrolling and the director before registering. Enrollment in one or more of the courses does not imply acceptance into the graduate certificate program. In order to receive a graduate certificate, complete the application process (see Application Process), and complete all six courses with an average grade of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Since I am not very skilled with computers, will I have problems taking classes online?
No, but you should be able to use email, use the web for research, send file attachments via email and participate in threaded discussions. See technical requirements.
How do I interact with my professors?
Instructors answer email questions, participate in online discussions, and personally evaluate assignments. Instructors also update course content to insure that courses stay on the cutting edge. Instructors keep scheduled "virtual office hours" each week. Interaction with the instructor is an important aspect of a quality online education. NOTE: You may speak directly to your professors during a Wimba Classroom session.
What is Wimba Classroom and how do I learn to use it?
Wimba Classroom is a synchronous conferencing system embedded in the BLS Vista Learning Management System (LMS) used to deliver UMass Boston fully online courses. Wimba Classroom use is intended to augment otherwise asynchronous online courses by providing an environment for meeting in real time, online.
To use Wimba Classroom, each student will require a computer headset equipped with microphone and may be purchased at any computer or electronic store. Prices range from $15 - $25. Students should test their access to Wimba Classroom and seek technical support to configure systems, as necessary, in advance of their first uses of Wimba Classroom. Learn more about Wimba Classroom and how Wimba Classroom works.
How important are writing skills in an on-line course?
Excellent writing skills are critical in an online course. A student must be able to communicate effectively with his instructor and with the other students. The instructor will be basing some of his assessment of student work on the quality of the writing skills. Much communication is done via e-mail and students need to be able to craft wording in such a way as to minimize misunderstandings and incorrect interpretations of the intended tone of the communication. Online students in a threaded discussion are expected to be concise, clear and to have well-researched their comments.
My question is not answered here, how do I find out more about studying online at UMass Boston?
