SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE - FAQ SHEET
Do I need an email address to take an online course?
Yes, all students are required to have a functional email account. It is one of the primary means of contacting your instructor and it is a mandatory program requirement. As a student at Southwest Florida College, you are given, after enrollment, a Google Apps student email account. Please watch the video on the Videos tab for more information on accessing that feature.
What will happen if I access my online class using the AOL browser?
AOL’s software tends to conflict with online educational systems. If you use AOL it will force you to logout of the system, it will generate errors, and make for a bad experience in general. AOL users should access the Internet using AOL, minimize the application, and use Internet Explorer to access the Website. Students can also use Firefox or Netscape Navigator.
What happens if I am taking a quiz and I lose Internet access?
Once you are able to log back into the system, try to access the quiz again. If you are unable to gain access, email your instructor immediately. Additional time will be granted in cases where internet loss has interrupted a quiz or exam.
Can I email my Application Assignments to my instructor?
No. These assignments must be submitted via the Dropbox area of the course. Individual emails cannot be tracked by the administration. The Dropbox function documents exactly when the assignment has been submitted. This policy is for the protection of the student as well as the instructor.
Can I post more than 3 Discussion responses per week?
Yes. Some students will post additional times if they are very interested in the subject matter. Please keep in mind that quality is as important as quantity. Additional postings will only help your grade if the assigned topic is being addressed.
Why am I being asked to save my Application Assignments as RTF if I am not using Microsoft Office?
RTF stands for Rich Text Format. Saving files in this format allows your work to be opened in all word processing applications (i.e. Word, WordPerfect, Works, etc.), not just the program you are using.
How long will it be before my grades are in the Gradebook?
Most grades will be available in the gradebook in 5-7 days. This is merely a rule of thumb. Check your syllabus and announcements for your instructor’s grading policy.
What do I do if I am going to miss a week or more of my online courses?
You should inform your instructors, Program Manager, and Distance Education administration via formal email. Under extreme circumstances, such as a death in the family, you may get leniency for due dates. If the situation is a planned event such as vacation or business trip, you are still required to submit your work on time.
If I do not think online classes are right for me, how long do I have to drop or switch into another course?
Anytime before the start of the term, during the early access period, and also during the first official week of any term; during the Add/Drop period, you may speak with a Registrar to change classes without penalties.
If my computer breaks can I drop off assignments to my instructor at any campus or can I have an extension on due dates?
No. If you have computer related issues, it is your responsibility to access a functional computer, whether on a residential campus, public library, family or friends computers. There is no late penalty waiver for technical issues pertaining to a home PC.
Can I still take online classes if I am using a MAC instead of a PC?
Yes. Some of the web formatting may be slightly altered due to course design on a PC, but eCollege has been tested on Safari and is compatible.