Frequently Asked Questions: How it Works
How does it work? What is it like to take an online class?
Taking an online program is easy to understand:
Connecting
A student needs a personal computer with an Internet connection and uses a web browser to access our e-learning environment. Instructional materials come in text, graphics, audio and video formats and are available online 24/7. Students can download and print them as they wish.
Instruction
Instruction is delivered primarily asynchronously (i.e., where the teacher and learner are not physically at the same place at the same time). Students work with materials either on their own or in discussion groups. They interact directly with each other and with the faculty typically through e-mail, threaded discussions (online discussion boards), chat and web-based whiteboard facilities, and some times through voice or video communication during synchronous sessions.
Assignments
All readings, work sessions, assignments and other tasks are pre-specified and monitored on a continuous basis. Written assignments are submitted online. Exams are taken online. Access to grades and feedback from instructors are provided online. Click here for our online demo.
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Who teaches my courses?
Our programs are usually taught by the same professors who teach on campus – typically tenured faculty members of Drexel University, with PhD degrees and distinctions for their research and expertise in the subjects they teach. They follow the same curricula, standards and accreditation as our programs on campus.
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How do I interact with my instructor? How are online discussions conducted?
Interaction
Students interact with their professor on a regular basis using e-mail, threaded discussions or online chat rooms. In specific corporate programs, some real-time video/audio or even face-to-face interaction may be possible.
Class Discussions
Discussions are conducted online through 'threaded discussions' (online discussion boards). Students post comments on questions in response to their instructor or to their peers. Students can read and post comments any time during the day.
Over time, these threaded discussions emulate face-to-face classroom discussions and become the primary space where student inquiries are addressed, points of views get debated and where an instructor can probe further into students’ understanding of key concepts.
On some occasions, discussions may also take place 'real time' (i.e., at the same time) through 'chat' facilities available for this purpose. Chat participants talk to each other 'live' by typing back and forth messages that appear on the screen as they are being typed. And of course, students and instructors also interact via e-mail.
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How much time does an online class take?
The total time to complete an online course (i.e., studying materials, attending lectures, interacting, completing assignments) is usually equivalent to that of an on-campus program.
You have the extra flexibility to 'attend class' (i.e., read materials, watch lectures on your PC, interact in web-based discussions and complete assignments) whenever you want during the week.
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How many people are in a class?
This varies depending on the program, but the number is usually not much different from what you would expect from most traditional classroom settings (i.e., a maximum number of 20-30). We keep class sizes smaller in courses that require more intense interaction.
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How does grading take place?
Grading takes place in a similar manner to traditional, classroom-based education. The only difference is that most assessment activities are web-based. You complete assignments and take exams online.
In some rare cases, exams may be proctored at specified locations.
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How can I access the library?
Students to Drexel's online programs are provided access to the same resources as traditional con-campus students. This includes full access to Drexel University's online library. For more information please click here.
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How can I order books?
Textbooks can be ordered online from a general online bookstore (such as Amazon.com) or from a college-recommended online bookstore, depending on the program in which you are enrolled. Once you have confirmed enrollment, you will receive detailed information about specific sources from which to purchase books.
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What other student services are available to online students?
Through the web-based environment of Drexel Online, you have access to all the services a student typically expects from an academic institution.
You can handle all administrative inquiries and get access to various reports and services remotely (e.g. grade reports, student records, ordering transcripts, billing matters).
DragonCard
As an online, matriculated student at Drexel you can also get a Drexel University student ID (called DragonCard) which offers you several benefits that include access to Drexel campus facilities and student discounts (on books, computer software and hardware, travel, entertainment, etc). Click here to learn more about the DragonCard.
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What hardware and software do I need?
Students do not need particular hardware and software to successfully participate in our online programs. Typically, a configured personal computer and access to the Internet is all you need. Some programs require specific software, which is available to students free of charge.
Applicants may use our automated system check or read our technical requirements for more information.
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