Q1. How is an online class different from a blended class?

A1. Other than a possible introductory meeting, online classes have no campus meetings. The entire class happens online. Blended classes have scheduled campus meetings over the course of the semester. During weeks when you do not meet in the classroom, you meet online.

Q2. Can I take all the courses toward my degree online?

A2. Currently, the only St. Edward’s degree major that is fully online is the Bachelor of Arts in Public Safety Management. Many other programs offer online and blended options; see the Course Schedule for available courses.

Q3. Are the online/blended courses self-paced like a correspondence class?

A3. The online/blended classes have weekly assignments and discussions with due- dates, and missing these due-dates is like missing a class. You usually cannot make-up something that is past the due date.

Q4. I am not especially comfortable working on a computer, is online learning a good way for me to improve my computer and internet skills?

A4. Online learning learning assumes that you are very comfortable working on the Internet, and with your personal computer. It would be difficult to participate meaningfully in the class is you do not have basic computer skills. If you want to improve your computer skills, you should consider attending the free workshops offered by Instructional Technology.

Q5. I have a heavy travel schedule and will be out of town for several weeks during the semester. Is an online course a good alternative for me?

A5. Online learning may be a good alternative. However, while on the road you need to have both personal time and the full-time availability of a computer and internet access. If you are considering a blended class, you need to make sure that you are planning to be in town during campus meetings. Most instructors require attendance at all the classroom meetings. In addition, remember that online courses can be more demanding than classroom-based courses, and many have team projects which require that you work with teammates.

Q6. I have an old computer. Can I still take an online class?

A6. You should check out the technical requirements section of this site. If your computer does not have the minimum specifications for online learning, you will not be able to take online classes. There are computers on campus, however, you would need to be prepared to come to one of the computer labs frequently to be able to complete the class requirements.

Q7. What is a synchronous, online meeting?

A7. Some blended classes utilize online conferencing or "chat" software to communicate in synchronous, or "real" time with audio, text and visuals. While a synchronous meeting does not require a trip to campus, it does necessitate being available at a pre-determined time, and having access during that time to a computer with an internet connection. You may also be required to download a free software plugin and purchase an inexpensive headset to use these systems.

Q8. What is a virtual classroom?

A8. Many online learning environments are referred to as a "virtual classrooms," but the most commonly used one at St. Edward's University is Blackboard. It is a web-delivered interface through which students and faculty can communicate and share documents. Faculty may post readings, assignments, and other course documents on Blackboard for students to access. Students may also turn in papers and take quizzes with Blackboard. To find out more about this software, please go to the HELP desk's Blackboard support page.