Distance Learning @ HCTC
"Offering Every Student Educational Opportunities"                                   DL Home

Distance Learning is....
any instructional opportunity that reaches beyond the college campus through the use of technology including Interactive Television [ITV] live two-way interactive instruction, KET Telecourses, and Web[online]/Web Local/Web Enhanced.

Technology-based courses require access to the appropriate technology. ITV, Telecourses, and Internet/Web based courses are for students who can function in an independent study environment. All courses established by HCTC are evaluated and supervised by Hazard Community and Technical College (HCTC) faculty and the distance learning coordinator. The online student is seldom required to attend formal class meetings. The electronically delivered distance learning courses are ideal opportunities for the self-motivated, independent learner, and the learner who is working and does not have a consistent schedule. Courses not offered by the College can be found by checking with KYVU.

How do I know if I am the "right type for this mode of learning?

People learn in different ways and at different rates. Some students enjoy listening to lectures, others draw concepts in their notebooks, yet others enjoy working in small groups. Visual learners tend to do best in online courses. Others learn to adapt. Online learning is not restricted by time or location, and as a result, it is a convenient learning environment for adults who have busy lives.

However, it may not be right mode of learning for you. Find out about your learning preference by taking the Learning Styles Inventory developed by Barbara Soloman and Richard Felder, Index of Learning Styles.

Online Learning is ideal for....

• Individuals who are self-motivated
• Individuals who are self-directed learners
• Individuals who are good readers
• Individuals who do not procrastinate
• Individuals who prefer an individualized mode of learning
• Individuals who do not need the stimulation of a traditional class
• Individuals who are excited and fairly comfortable with technology
  

You also need...

• the Ability to access the course for a minimum of 10 hours a week
• the Motivation to adapt to a nontraditional learning environment
• and be Patient enough to deal with occasional technical glitches

You don't have to be a technology wizard to take an online course; however, you must be comfortable with your system and be willing to deal with any problems that may arise.