Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How are online courses different from a regular  face-to-face class?

Are Online Courses for Everyone?

What computer equipment do students need  to take an online course?

Do online students have to be computer experts?

Does financial aid cover online classes?

How do I register for a course?

Will my credit hours transfer to other schools?

How do I get my textbooks?

How do I drop a class?

How do I access my online course?

Who do I contact if I have any problems or questions?

 
How are online courses different from a
regular face-to-face class?
An online college class "simulates" a traditional classroom. A group of students begins a course at the same time and proceeds through the lessons week by week until the end of the semester. Students find their syllabus and weekly assignments and activities on the Internet site. Lessons and assignments are fully explained on the course pages, and regular contact with the instructor is encouraged. Unlike coming to class at regular intervals, you are not required to be on the web at a specific time. Being self-directed is a good trait for online students.
 
As in a traditional classroom, online students read/study a textbook, complete assignments, take quizzes and exams, or complete group or team assignments, but class discussions are carried out online. These "threaded" discussions are a series of linked messages created over time as users read and reply to existing messages; in other words, an online conversation.
~ top ~ 
  
 
Are online courses for everyone?
Many students want and need the personal interaction that a traditional classroom gives. However, others prefer to work independently and especially enjoy the ability to take a class in their own homes. Ideal candidates for online courses are students who are self-motivated and are perhaps required to travel for their jobs, live in a remote location, work varying hours, and generally need the flexibility of online courses.
 
As with most cases, you will get out of a course what you put into it. If you contribute to discussions and keep up with assignments, you'll find online courses gratifying on several levels.
~ top ~

  
What computer equipment do students
need to take an online course?
You will need Internet access with personal email.
~ top ~ 
  
 
Do online students have to be computer experts?
You don't need to be an expert, but you should know how to use the computer, navigate on the World Wide Web, know how to save and retrieve files and how to use standard business software. You should also understand how to use a CD-ROM, and how to use a modem to connect to the Internet.
~ top ~ 
  
 
Does financial aid cover online classes?
Yes. Financial aid covers online classes just as it would on-campus courses. You can use any financial award (such as a scholarship) to pay online course costs, like tuition, fees, or textbooks.
 
For more information on financial aid, visit our Financial Aid web site: Paying For College. You may apply for the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) through the Department of Education's web site: www.fafsa.ed.gov/
~ top ~

  
How do I register for a course?
Call Tracy Oberbroeckling at 563-441-4014 or toll free 1-800-895-0811 for enrollment information. Once you have registered for your class(es), you will be contacted by the college via email and given instructions.
~ top ~ 
  
 
Will my credit hours transfer to other schools?
Credits earned through online courses offered by Clinton, Muscatine, and Scott Community Colleges are generally transferable to accredited institutions. If you are planning to transfer to a college or university out of state (other than Iowa), it doesn't hurt to make contact first to let them know what you plan to take.
~ top ~ 
  
 
How do I get my textbooks?
You may order your textbooks online through Clinton, Muscatine, or Scott Community College. All information will be included in the online course syllabus. The college bookstore can help you buy everything you need for your course(s). 
  
Clinton Community College Bookstore -
http://bookstore.clintoncc.com/
Muscatine Community College Bookstore -
http://bookstore.muscatinecc.com/
Scott Community College Bookstore -
http://bookstore.scottcc.com/
~ top ~
  
  
How do I drop a class?
If you need to drop a class, you must follow the course drop procedure. Contact Carrie Meador at 563-441-4015 or toll free 800-895-0811 to find out the timeline and procedure for dropping a class.
~ top ~ 
  
 
How do I access my online course?
Using any computer with an Internet connection, you can access your course. When you register for your online course, you will be given a login ID and password. Your personal login ID and password will give you access to your courses.
~ top ~ 
  
 
Who do I contact if I have any problems or questions?
Let your instructor know if you are having problems with the course, so he or she can direct you to technical support.
~ top ~