Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. I am an out of state student and want to take an online class. Is that a possibility? If I need a test proctoring site, can I find one that is acceptable in my state.

A. It's possible to take our online courses from another state. Since they are Internet-based, you can access them from almost anywhere! You will need to contact your instructor to determine if there are any proctored exams in your class. You're in the best position to find a site near you. We suggest that you check out a local community college and ask about the services of their assessment center.

Q. Why does it cost me more to take a distance learning class?

A. Not all distance learning courses cost more. Right now, students will be charged a course fee of $16 per contact hour for online, hybrid and telecourses. These fees are used to provide you with support for these classes, including the funds for operating the Student Technology Help Desk.

Q. I e-mailed my instructor and they have not responded. How do I get a hold of them?

A. Our online instructors are pretty responsive to e-mail. Ensure you have the correct e-mail address and try again from a valid e-mail account. Sometimes your instructor has replied, but it has "bounced back." If you still don't get a reply (give them 24 hours), you may want to contact them by phone or in person. Look up their name in the GRCC directory. Finally, you may always contact us at 616-234-4226.

Q. I can't get on Blackboard. Who should I contact about this?

A. There are several reasons you may not be able to access Blackboard® (http://bb.grcc.edu). The Student Technology Help Desk has an excellent FAQ.

Q. Do I have to come on campus?

A. You are seldom required to come on campus for an online class. Contact the instructor for any campus meeting requirements. You will come to class for hybrid classes. These are online classes that have scheduled campus meeting times. Most telecourses require you to travel to campus to take proctored tests in the Assessment Center. Again, contact your instructor for more details.

Q. Can I order my book online?

A. Yes. However, you may have to wait until the books are available for the semester you are enrolled in. Keep checking the online bookstore for details.

Q. Who is my instructor and what is their e-mail address?

A. Check the Online Student Center for the latest instructor information. You may have registered for the class before an instructor is actually assigned. In many cases, distance learning offerings in the Online Student Center or the printed schedule contain the instructor's name and e-mail address. You can also look up their name in the GRCC directory. Finally, you may always contact us at 616-234-4226.

Q. Can I start course work as soon as I register and pay?

A. In most cases, course work doesn't start until the class date. However, we understand your need to be prepared. You can contact the instructor for a syllabus and book information. Orientations are the best place to learn more about your class before it starts.

Q. Do I have to have Grand Rapids Comcast Channel 28 to take a Telecourse?

A. No. You do not have to have cable access to take a telecourse - you may rent tapes/DVDs from GRCC. Contact the Library Circulation Desk at 234-3872. For more details, visit the Library and Learning Commons Telecourse page.

3283 page hits and 3170 unique visits since 06-16-05
Updated on 16-JUN-06
Edit this page | View text only version