Brunswick Community College - Information Technology at BCC

Distance Learning at Brunswick Community College

What is a Telecourse?

Courses that utilize professionally produced media lessons viewed via public television, videocassette, DVD, or streaming video are referred to as "telecourses." Along with the viewed lessons, these courses may include a combination of textbooks, workbooks, telephone, email, the internet, and face-to-face meetings to create the best mix of learning experiences. Telecourses are indicated on the BCC Course Schedule as sections 31, 32, etc.

After registering for your course, the first step is to complete the orientation. Telecourse orientations may be done at a scheduled meeting on-campus or online. The orientation will provide the broadcast schedule for those telecourses that are aired on PBS, viewing options for non-aired telecourses, instructor contact information, how to obtain your course materials, and other necessary details Orientation information is updated each semester; please go to the orientation website for more information.

On-Line Courses

Internet-based courses (aka on-line or Blackboard courses) are taught completely or predominately via the Internet. Some courses may include proctored tests or study sessions which require on-campus attendance. Students complete the coursework, reading or research activities, and submit assignments on an instructor-led schedule.

An important thing to remember is that an online class is not a self-paced course, and there are specific due dates for completing assignments. The online course advantage is not having to be in class at a pre-defined place and time.

Completion of an on-line orientation is required each semester. Online courses are indicated as sections 81, 82, 83, etc. on the class schedule of courses.

Hybrid courses

Courses that utilize more than one method of instruction are called hybrids. The most common combination at BCC is the traditional-Internet hybrid. Students meet on campus for at least 50% of the course and complete the remaining coursework online. Another hybrid blends online and telecourse instructional modes into a teleweb course.

Students taking hybrid courses complete an appropriate orientation at the beginning of the semester. The type of orientation is based on the instructional methods used in the hybrid course the student is taking. Hybrids are usually indicated by section numbers 91, 92, 93, etc.

Opportunities

BCC offers telecourses and online classes to those who wish to complete their education but are unable to attend regularly scheduled classes. Additionally, BCC brings courses not available locally through interactive video classrooms at both the main campus in Supply and BCC's Leland Center.

If your current course or work schedule makes it difficult to earn college credit, telecourses and online courses may help you achieve your goal. Assistance, direction, and support are provided throughout the semester by BCC's faculty and distance learning staff members.

Section numbers identify distance learning offerings in the semester schedule of courses. Section numbers in the 30s, 40s, 80s, and 90s are telecourses, interactive video (NCIH or ITV), online, and hybrid courses respectively.

For more information, contact the Distance Learning Office at brunsdl@brunswickcc.edu.

Distance Learning Orientations and Information

Click the logo below for more information and access to distance learning orientations.
Note: Orientations will be available after Registration Day each semester.

Interactive Video Classes

Interactive video classrooms are located at both the BCC main campus and the Leland Center. These classrooms connect sites throughout the state bringing courses to Brunswick County that may not be offered otherwise. Classes are led by an instructor from a primary classroom and broadcast to the other locations called remote sites. A facilitator is at every site assisting with equipment operation as well as distributing and collecting class materials. Each room is equipped with cameras, monitors, and microphones which allows real-time communication between sites.

Students and instructors converse, share documents, and interact as if they were in the same location. These courses meet on a regular course schedule and are designated by section numbers 41, 42, 43, etc.