Online Learning at IVCC

How are online courses delivered?

  • Fully online classes are delivered via the internet with start and end dates but no scheduled meeting times. 

  • Blended Classes are delivered both in a classroom and online. Classroom time is reduced by the time spent online.

  • Virtual Classes are delivered live via the internet during scheduled meeting times. Students need a webcam and microphone to participate in online live classes.

Course section numbers and meeting times of a course indicate the delivery format. Go to Class Delivery Formats for more information.

What technology is required to take online courses? 

You will need a reliable internet connection and a good primary device with a microphone and camera. You may be able to do some of your online work on a smart phone, but your best experience will be on a laptop or desktop computer.  Visit Devices, Browsers, Software, and Apps for more information.

Wi-Fi and computers are available on the main campus in Oglesby and at the Ottawa Center. Laptops are available for checkout through the Academic Support Center.

As a registered IVCC student, you have access to Microsoft 365 Apps, including Word, to use for classwork.

How much time is needed to take an online class?

Plan to spend 8-10 hours per week for each 3-credit hour course taken in a 16-week semester. Courses offered in shorter terms require additional time each week because the same amount of coursework is completed in a shorter period.

You should log in to your course multiple times each week to stay current with readings, assignments, discussions, quizzes, and other course activities.

How can I prepare to be a successful online learner?

Students taking their first online course at IVCC are required to register for CSP-0002 Orientation to Distance Learning. This mandatory, non-credit course should be completed before your online course begins or within the first two weeks of your online course.

This self-paced orientation takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete. After successfully completing the activities and knowledge checks, you will earn a Certificate of Completion that can be shared with your online instructors as proof of completion.

About 2-3 weeks before your online course begins, you will receive an email message to your IVCC Mail with the subject line "Welcome to CSP-0002-Orientation to Distance Learning!" This email message will contain instructions on how to get started with the orientation.

How do I get help with online learning? 

If you need help completing your online orientation course, contact your instructor. 

You also have access to free academic support services designed to help you succeed as an online learner. The The Academic Support Center is your place to study, receive free tutoring and research assistance, and get help using learning technologies.