Questions

What Are Telecourses?
Telecourses are complete learning systems that combine video and print components to be used under an instructor's direction, but without classroom instruction. Professionally produced video series-usually comprised of 26 half-hour programs, course textbooks and study guides, and a full complement of quizzes, study activities, and examinations-enable students to attain the telecourse goals and learning objectives.

Telecourses are an exceptionally flexible means of providing instruction and training. Not only can they be delivered by broadcast television and such modes of communication as satellite and cable, students can take telecourses using videocassettes in their homes, at training sites, or at learning centers. And telecourse video programs can be effective in meeting the training needs of businesses and institutions as well as serving traditional educational purposes.

How do you view the lessons?
Your video lessons may be viewed in several ways:

1. Each campus keeps copies of all video lessons and you may view those in the campus library or appropriate learning center at posted operating hours.
2. If available, some colleges broadcast the video lessons on local cable systems.
3. Your local OETA/PBS channel broadcasts most of the video lessons.
4. Several campuses provide access to the video lessons by videostreaming via the Internet.
5. You can now rent almost all of the video lessons from RMI Media Productions, Inc. Visit http://www.rmimedia.com for more information.

How do I communicate with my instructor?
There are several methods of communicating with your instructor. You may use one or more of the following methods: Appointments - See your instructor during scheduled office hours. It would be helpful to call ahead and make sure your instructor will be there. You may also request appointments during hours other than regular office hours. Fax – Your instructor may provide a fax number for you to use. Help Sessions - Many instructors provide help sessions at regularly scheduled times during the semester. Plan to attend those sessions if you have questions or need assistance. Test Reviews - Many instructors hold review sessions before scheduled tests. If you have questions or problems, please attend those sessions. If you do not wish to wait for a review session, you may contact your instructor at any time. Telephone - Your instructor will provide a telephone number to you. Please keep it handy. If you call and your instructor is not in the office, use voice mail to leave a message and your call will be returned as quickly as possible. Please indicate in your message that you are a telecourse student and let your instructor know a good time to return your call. E-Mail - Your instructor will provide an e-mail address for you. Mail - You may send messages or assignments to campus using the address provided by the instructor.

Are textbooks required?
Yes. Your instructor will inform you during the orientation session which materials are required for your course. You may also check with the bookstore staff before the orientation. All textbooks and required print materials are available through the appropriate college bookstore. Some colleges now provide on-line ordering.

What is a help session?
Some faculty schedule help sessions on a regular basis during the semester. These sessions are intended for students who need assistance with or have questions concerning the course video or print materials. During orientation, you will receive information concerning any help sessions the instructor plans to offer.

What is a test review session?
Many instructors hold test review sessions before scheduled test dates. You will receive notification of these sessions either in the syllabus or through reminder cards or letters from your instructor.

Where are tests taken?
Most colleges provide test centers or make other accommodations for students to take tests on campus or at a learning site. Your instructor will inform you or the appropriate date and locations. At most sites, a photo identification will be required before the test is given.

What are some tips on how to be a succesful telecourse student?
Your success is important to the instructors. Specific information will be provided by your instructor; below are some general helpful hints to help you succeed as a distance learner.

1. Start early on assignments. Time has a way of slipping by quickly.
2. Establish and stick to a regular study schedule.
3. Contact your instructor immediately if you have questions or problems.
4. Make contacts with other students in your class. Form study groups if possible.
5. During your orientation or at any time during the semester, ask questions about resources, deadlines, expectations, etc. You must be responsible for seeking answers to your questions.
6. Telecourse students are expected to be independent learners. You must motivate yourself to study regularly and meet course deadlines.
7. Understand the difference between active and passive learning and between active and passive television viewing. If you do not understand the difference, ask your instructor for assistance.

Do I have to Attend an On Campus Orientation?
Many campuses require students to attend an on-campus orientation before their telecourse begins with the instructor whom will teach the telecourse. At the orientation students receive their syllabi, broadcast schedules and are able to ask questions of the instructor at that time, along with learning expectations of the telecourse.

Are there any resources available to telecourse students?
Each campus will identify a variety of on-campus and on-line resources available to the students. These resources are identified in the telecourse syllabus given to the students upon enrollment or at orientation. For more information, contact: the specific campus identified on the HETA membership list