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How do I get started?

How do I know if Distance Learning is right for me?
Find out if Distance Learning is a "good fit" for you by taking the Is DL Right For You quiz.

Where do I go for more information on the TNCC Distance Learning programs?
For more information about distance learning at TNCC, please contact The Office of Distance Learning at 757-825-2955.

Where can I find course descriptions and requirements?
The course descriptions and prerequisites are listed in the TNCC class Schedule (select Distance Learning from the drop-down -Campus- menu).

What are the costs of Distance Learning courses?
Distance Learning tuition fees are the same as those for on-campus courses.

How can I register for Distance Learning Courses?
Registration procedures for Distance Learning courses are the same as procedures for on-campus courses. For more information, contact the Admissions Office at 757-825-2800.

How can I get my textbooks?
You may purchase your textbooks at the TNCC bookstore or from an online book seller.

When does class start?  
An online course starts the same date as other TNCC scheduled courses.
It is the student's responsibility to initiate participation in each online class by contacting the professor. The student should complete the Online DL-Orientation, then find Username and Set Password at MyTNCC, and finally log in to Blackboard, go to their course site.

What kind of computer equipment do I need?
Minimum Hardware Requirements

Will I need to come to the TNCC campus?
Occasionally, you may also need to take proctored exams in the TNCC Make-up and Distance Learning Testing Center or in another approved proctored testing site. See your course syllabus.

How do I communicate with my instructor?
There are many methods of communication available, depending on the course you are taking. Most instructors encourage communication via Discussion Boards, virtual office hours through virtual chat, e-mail and phone.

What if I don't have Internet at home?
Online students must be proficient users of the World Wide Web and e-mail and must provide their own reliable, regular access to the Internet ( they may use TNCC Academic Computer Lab).

I can't log into Blackboard. What do I do?
First, contact your instructor and make sure that you are enrolled in the course. You may also contact the TNCC helpdesk at helpdesk@tncc.edu or call 757-825-2709. The helpdesk will also be able to resolve username and/or password problems.

Is DL right for you?

Motivation
1. Why are you considering taking a distance learning class?

Because I need it immediately for a degree, job or other important reason.
Because the on-campus course I needed was already full (or cancelled).
Because I think it will be easier than an on-campus course. 

Time Management and Study Habits
2. Which of the following statements is most true about your time management skills?

I manage my time very well. I make study schedules and I follow them. My assignments are always on time.
I manage my time pretty well. I usually get my assignments done on time.
I tend to put things off. I often wait until the last minute to get my assignments done, and sometimes they are late.

3. How are your study habits?

I often get things done ahead of time and I even do extra work in order to study the material.
I need reminders and reinforcement to get my studying done.
I sometimes forget to complete assignments.  

Essential Skills
4. How well do you read and follow instructions?

I can almost always figure out written instructions on my own.
I usually understand the directions on my own, but often ask the teacher just to be sure.
I frequently find instructions confusing.

5. Do you enjoy reading?

Yes, I read books for pleasure. I understand the textbooks I read in my classes.
I read when I have to, and I understand most of my course textbooks.
I do not like to read in my free time. Some of my course textbooks are confusing or boring.
  

Learning Style
6. Do you consider yourself to be an independent learner?

Yes, I don't need to hear a teacher lecture on assignments I have already read.
Yes, but I like having the instructor lecture on the material after I have read it.
No, in fact for most subjects, I need the instructor to review the material in class the next day.

7. Do you seek help when you need it?

I don't mind asking questions when I need information or have a problem.
I don't like to ask questions, but I will if I cannot figure it out by myself.
I usually am not comfortable asking questions. 
 

Computer Skills
8. How good are your computer skills?

I have excellent computer skills, and I use the Internet regularly.
I am somewhat familiar with the computer and the Internet.
I am not very familiar with the computer or the Internet.

9. How easy is it for you to use new computer skills?

I have little or no difficulty learning computer technology skills.
I do not like to experiment with computer technology, but can learn it if I have to.
I am uncomfortable using computer technology.

10. How much do you use computers?

I am computer literate. I run applications, install software, and can manage files.
I am somewhat comfortable with computers. I can run most programs and manage files, but I haven't downloaded or installed programs from the Internet.
I haven't used computers much.

11. What is your experience with the World Wide Web?

I am very comfortable looking for information and doing research on the Web.
I have primarily used the Web to communicate with friends and family.
I haven't surfed the Web very much at all.

12. What is your experience using e-mail?

I can send and open e-mail. I know how to attach files to e-mail messages and to open attached files that I receive.
I only know how to send and open e-mail.
I have not used e-mail much at all. 

Access to Technology
13. Do you have access to a VCR, an audio tape player, a TV and a computer?

I have this technology available to me.
I have access to a portion of this technology.

I have an Internet-ready computer available to me either where I live or work, any time I need it.
I will need to use a computer at a facility away from my primary place of residence, but I have access to one at times that are convenient to me.
I will need to use a computer at a facility away from my home, but I do not know where one is located.