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FAQWhat is Online Learning?
Online education has quickly evolved into one of the leading educational formats for individuals just like you with busy schedules but important goals.
Through Regent University's fully accredited, distance education programs, you can enjoy a user-friendly learning environment that eliminates the complexities of online education yet retains the highest standards of academic excellence.
Could online learning work for you? Learn more about it:
Advantages
Convenience
Most of those who choose the online environment do so because of the convenience of studying when and where they wish. Our online learning programs are asynchronous, allowing you to balance your coursework with your personal schedule. Forget the worries of commuting or negotiating class schedules; simply log in at a time that is convenient for you.
- No need leave your job or uproot your life.
- Stay at home with your family.
- Access hundreds of research databases, periodicals and other resources through Regent University's online library.
- Have more time to think about and articulate your responses versus a traditional classroom setting.
- The Information Technology Department offers weekday support until 11:00 p.m. should you have any questions or need assistance.
Quality
Regent University's online programs utilize the same rigorous curricula as those used on campus. The faculty who teach your courses are experienced, knowledgeable and understand the biblical principles that make your education unique. While the academic programs are rigorous, you'll find plenty of support with hundreds of resources instantly available through Regent's online library as well as superior customer service from the Information Technology department open weeknights until 11:00 p.m.
- Online curricula incorporate a Christian perspective.
- Faculty feedback to assignments is prompt and helpful.
- Receive excellent customer service from the Information Technology Department.
Collaboration
Regent utilizes a sophisticated, easy-to-use online educational platform called Blackboard that allows students to access and download course materials, submit assignments, and interact with professors and fellow students. This engaging, supportive and student-centered learning environment allows you to collaborate with fellow learners around the world.
Student Support Services
Online students have access to Regent's many student support services.
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Writing Center
Visit the Writing Center website to register for an online writing course, find helpful writing resources or to speak with a writing coach for guidance. -
Study Abroad
Regent offers several study abroad opportunities each summer. Please visit our Study Abroad website for more information. -
Campus Ministry
Online students can listen to audio recordings of guest chapel speakers, read the chaplain's devotionals or even view video of special chapel sessions at the Spirit Life website. -
Center for Student Development
The Center for Student Development offers numerous online workshops on an array of topics such as speed reading, time management and professional image.
Expectations
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Time commitment
You can expect the same time requirements for an online course as you would for a traditional class. The advantage to an online course is that you decide when and where you would like to study. Because online courses follow the regular semester schedule, you will need to pay close attention to scheduled deadlines associated with the course. This requires you to be both self-motivated and disciplined. -
Assignments/Assessments
Each online class posts a course schedule along with a list of all assignments and their due dates. Assignments are submitted online, and all assessments are completed right inside Blackboard. -
Interaction with other students
Online learning is not isolated learning. Through Blackboard and chat tools, you will collaborate with your fellow students, discussing course material and even completing group assignments. -
Technology and technical assistance
Regent's Information Technology Department is available to help you with any technical questions you may have. Just call or email our help desk. Also, visit our Technology Tools page. -
Course feedback
Regent values its students' opinions and uses their feedback to build better courses. At the end of each course you will have a chance to fill out an anonymous course evaluation.
Online Myths
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Myth #1 - I can do my assignments anytime.
As an online student you set your schedule but are still responsible for finishing assignments by their listed due date. You have flexibility as an online student but also added responsibility to keep yourself on track with the assignment schedule. -
Myth #2 - I can hide and don't have to participate.
More introverted students actually find the online environment an easier place in which to share their thoughts and ideas. All online students are expected to participate in discussions and group assignments. In fact, since students do not meet face-to-face, participation in discussion opportunities is vital for creating a learning community. -
Myth #3 - I won't receive personal attention in an online course.
You will receive numerous opportunities to interact with your professor in an online course. Professors check and respond to emails regularly and keep virtual office hours. Many also set up class chat sessions to answer questions and address concerns. -
Myth #4 - Online classes are easier.
Online classes are as rigorous as any traditional course. In fact, they are sometimes more demanding and time-consuming because of the independent nature of online learning. -
Myth #5 - Broken computers are acceptable excuses.
Technical difficulties are not an excuse for not completing assignments. Since your coursework is online, any computer connected to the Internet will be able to access it. If you find yourself having computer problems, let your professor know. -
Myth #6 - I will be taught how to use a computer.
Some basic computer skills you are expected to have mastered before taking an online course include the following: sending and receiving emails, opening or sending an email attachment, searching the Internet, using Microsoft Word and downloading files. We have numerous online tutorials to teach you how to use Blackboard. -
Myth #7 - I can procrastinate and cram all my work into one login session.
Your online class will have weekly assignments, including readings, discussion board postings and assessments. These cannot be completed in one login session, even one per week. We recommend you login several times a week to keep up with the workload.
Our Students
Do you want to know more about the reality of online learning? Meet some of our students now, and hear them describe their online educational experience in their own words.
