What is Distance Education?

Distance education allows students to complete course requirements without physically being in the presence of their instructor by using innovative communication technologies that enable facutly and students to engage in meaningful learning activites.  SFA offers selected programs and courses through distance education designed to meet the needs of the non-traditional student.  

Distance education courses at  SFA are typically offered using some combination of the following technologies:

• WebCT -  SFA’s supported online course delivery software.  Instruction is delivered via the Internet, e-mail, discussion boards, chat, streaming video, and other Web resourses. Students with access to the Internet may participate at any time of day from anywhere in the world.  Visit the WebCT/Distance Education Frequently Asked Questions page for additional information.
• Interactive Video (ITV) - Instruction is delivered through interactive video in specially equipped classrooms at both the local and distant sites. ITV provides for live video and audio interaction between students and professors.

What are the Requirements for taking a Distance Education course?

• Computer Hardware/Software
• Student Computer Skills
  

What steps should I follow to take a Distance Education course?

1. You must be admitted to the University.  Contact the Admissions office to check on your admission status.  
2. Fulfill all advising requirements by checking with your major department.
3. Prior to registering for a distance education course, complete each task on the Before Class Starts Checklist