Frequently Asked Questions about Online Learning

Below are some common questions students have regarding Colorado Mountain College Online Learning courses. They cover such topics as computer knowledge/requirements, campus visits, and acquiring course materials/information. Please visit the pages for each type of course.

Frequently Asked Questions about Online Learning

Below are some common questions students have regarding Colorado Mountain College Online Learning courses. They cover such topics as computer knowledge/requirements, campus visits, and acquiring course materials/information. Please visit the pages for each type of course.

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Common Questions about the Online Learning

Can anyone take Online Learning courses?
Yes, but Online Learning courses are not for everyone. To be able to successfully complete a web course, you need to be self-motivated. You will not regularly attend class on campus, but you may be required to meet once a week via WebEx or another videoconferencing tool.  Some people learn best by interacting face to face with other students. Interaction in a web course is achieved via writing and email. Students benefit from greater freedom to schedule their time and complete their educational goals by working independently from home or work.

WebEx Enabled classroom courses are different from web courses in that physical presence is required at a campus. Therefore, WebEx enabled classroom courses require classroom or site attendance during all scheduled times. You need to have available time during your schedule to attend class in one of the designated locations at the scheduled times.

Where can I find a listing of all current Online Learning courses?
There are a couple different ways to find out what Online Learning courses are currently being offered.

  1. See the Classes for a listing of current and upcoming Online Learning courses.
  2. Online Learning courses are also listed in each campus/site bulletin just like any other course.

How competent do I need to be with my computer if I take a Web Course?
Students considering modem-delivered classes should be comfortable with the following computer skills:

  • Familiar with the operating system used on your computer or the computer you will be using.
  • Be comfortable with word processing software.
  • Understand terms such as mouse, drag, drop, open, select, file, choose, double-click, download, upload, send, etc.
  • Understand how to use the following features:
    1. Installation of new software
    2. Pull down menus and directories in Windows or folders on a Macintosh
    3. Save/Save As (files)
    4. File naming conventions (number of characters, extensions, text only, etc.)
    5. Use of ALT + Tab in Windows or the FINDER on a Macintosh (to switch between applications)
    6. Copying files between directories and drives, or folders and drives
    7. Finding files on the hard drive or on disks
    8. Minimize and maximize Windows
    9. Copy and paste text or graphics across applications (using the clipboard)

How will I find out the course information?
Most web-based courses have telephone or online orientations that students are required to complete at the beginning of the term. The course syllabus will also provide you with all course information, including the contact information for the instructor if you should have any questions. All instructors want to be sure that you know to call them when you may have questions so that you get the most out of your course and Online Learning experience.

How will I be able to obtain the required materials such as textbooks?
Students at CMC participate in the Learning Materials Program (LMP). Our affordable flat rate "textbooks in tuition" lease system and service provide 100% of required materials by the first day or start of semester automatically customized to the student’s schedule.

The Learning Materials Program fees are easily budgeted as cost of attendance in financial aid and payment plans.

Learn more about the Learning Materials Program

How are exams and homework handled?
Most web course lessons and assignments are done online using a variety of evaluation tools. Online interaction usually takes place within Canvas, our learning managements system. Some instructors may give midterm and final exams on campus. Some classes substitute projects or papers in lieu of exams.

Assignments for web courses are submitted via your computer through Canvas, which is CMC's Learning Management System (LMS). Assignments are listed in the Canvas course and in the syllabus.

If I am taking a Online Learning course, will I have to go to campus at all?
If you are enrolled in a course offered by Online Learning (example: ENG-xxx-DSxx), then no. Campuses may offer modified online courses (indicated in the course description), which may require attendance or accessing a campus in order to utilize library resources. This information is also given to you at the orientation or in the syllabus.