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Frequently Asked Questions about Distance Learning
What is distance learning?
Any course taught where the instructor and the student are not in the same location is considered a distance learning course. Thousands of students have discovered the convenience and flexibility of taking courses via distance learning.
The benefits to a distance learning course are many. For most courses the student accesses the course materials and does the coursework at a time convenient for them. However distance learning is not right for everyone. There is no instructor standing there to help, and no one to remind you of due dates.
Is distance learning right for me?
To find out whether you are a good fit for an online course, take the READI assessment. Learn where your strengths are, and which areas may present challenges to your online success. The assessment is free and takes just a few minutes. Results are sent directly to your e-mail, not to your instructor or the college.
To take the READI assessment, click the button below and use a login of westerntexas and a password of student.
What courses can I take online?
Western Texas College offers a wide variety of courses online. Check the online course catalog for a listing of academic and vocational courses.
If your interest is in a short continuing education course (non college credit) instead of a full-semester college credit course, check out the 300+ courses available through ed2go. All ed2go courses are completely online.
What if I don't see the course I need?
Additional online courses are offered through the Virtual College of Texas, a consortium of community colleges throughout the state. You can search the VCT site for the course you need, then sign up for the course through Western Texas College. Check with the Distance Learning office for information and assistance.
How do I access my course?
Online courses are accessed via the Internet using a special program called Moodle. Each instructor places course materials, course calendar, course policies, and course activities in Moodle. Each student sets up an account in Moodle and has access to coursework, including grades. Access can occur from any Internet-connected computer worldwide.
How do I start?
All students selecting distance education courses must have completed admission procedures prior to registering for classes. Contact the Distance Learning office for information and assistance. Phone 888-468-6982 or e-mail dl@wtc.edu.
Distance Learning in High School
Many participating area high schools offer dual-credit courses from WTC through distance learning. Most dual-credit courses are taught via two-way interactive video (ITV). Internet-based and video-based courses are also available depending on the course and school.
High school students qualifying for college admission may also be able to enroll directly at WTC. For more information on dual enrollment and early admissions, click here.
How do I log in to the support sites?
Login information:
- Moodle - if you do not have an existing Moodle account, you can set one up by visiting the site.
- SMARTHINIKING - Access to the Smarthinking tutorial services requires a WTC student e-mail address. The password is: western. If you do not have a WTC student e-mail account, contact the campus IT department for assistance.
- READI - the READI assessment helps individual students determine their readiness and suitability for online coursework. This assessment is available free to all WTC students. Login: westerntexas Password: student
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