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Online FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 


Do I ever have to come to the campus?

You may have a face-to-face and/or proctored (supervised) exam.  If this is the case you will need to speak with your instructor about getting a Proctor.

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Can I work at my own pace, or is there a set schedule? 

Most online courses have a set schedule for assignments and testing. 

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Can I receive advising online?    

Yes, visit http://www.apsu.edu/orientation/advising

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When do online courses begin? 

The courses are posted on the Academic Calendar. 

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Are there Library services online? 

Yes. 
For RODP: Visit the TBR Virtual Library for more information. 

For APSU: Visit the APSU Library for more information.

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Who should take an online course? 

Many different types of students can benefit from taking online courses.  If you have the right equipment, Internet access, and time to work on the course regularly, you may want to consider online courses.  An online course may be for you if:

  • You have obligations that prevent you from attending class during regular hours
  • You live far away from a College
  • You do not have access to transportation

... and many other reasons.  Studies have proven repeatedly that students who are highly self-motivated, responsible, and self-disciplined can do well in a distance education program.

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Will I be able to get help, or will I be all on my own?

We all want to see you succeed.  You will give yourself a good start by taking the orientation and honestly assessing your computer skills and equipment needs.

  • You will be able to contact your instructor by email and telephone.  
  • Most courses have a discussion board where you can post questions and topics with your classmates.  
  • Your course may have a live 'chat' component.
  • Tech support is available 24 hours and 7 days a week

APSU/RODP does not provide computer, modem, Internet Service Provider (ISP) or software support other than the Desire2Learn(D2L) course management system.   

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Are online courses easier than on-campus courses? 

Please don't confuse the flexibility of an online course with ease. The same course material is covered and the same course objectives must be met with each.  Because most of the contact with your instructor is via email, it will take longer to get a question answered than just raising your hand in class.  You will be reviewing the material on your own, so how much time you spend depends on your study habits. 

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Do I still need to buy a textbook? 

For most online courses, you will need to buy a textbook.  Be sure to check the online syllabus for your course or check with your instructor. APSU students can order their textbooks from the APSU Bookstore . RODP students MUST order their books from the RODP Bookstore .**This is required of RODP students.**

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I have a computer and can get on the Internet, is that all I need? 

You may need additional software and hardware to take an online course.  It all depends on the course requirements.  Be sure to contact your instructor for questions specific to your online course.

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What is the difference between an APSU Online class and a RODP Online class?

  • Both APSU Online courses and RODP Online courses are administered through the learning management system Desire2Learn(D2L) but they are accessed differently. If you are taking an RODP Online course and an APSU Online course, you will login to two different D2L systems.
  • APSU courses are taught by APSU faculty and adjunct instructors while RODP courses are taught by faculty and adjunct instructors from any of the thirteen community colleges and six universities.
  • There is also a slight difference in costs between RODP courses and APSU courses. Please refer to Tuition and Fees website.

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