Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do these classes count for college credit?

Yes they do. There is no distinction on your transcript as to whether a course has been taught via the Internet or in the classroom.

• What is a distance course at e-TC3 like?

Probably the best way to see what a course is like is to go to the SUNY Learning Network (SLN). You will find a sample SLN course that will give you a rough idea of what a course looks like.

The sample course that is shown demonstrates only discussions within the course content section. Most courses use many more features here, including "mini-lectures", "written assignments", "self tests" and more.

These courses are asynchronous, meaning there is no chat or other requirement to be online or anywhere else at a particular time. However, they are not self-paced, as they begin and end with the semester, and they have specific due dates for assignments, readings, etc.

Individual documents may be printed from your browser. Online discussion takes place on a series of message board type pages, organized along with content and assignments, by the professor.

• Are TC3's online courses self-paced?

No! The online courses have very specific beginning and ending dates, and all assignments will have a specific due date. It is very important for students to log in to their course(s) within 2 days of the beginning of the class.

• Do TC3 online courses require any live activity, such as the use of a chat room?

The interactive aspect of the course is done through an asynchronous message system, similar to a Web based message board. Some e-mail messaging is also used. Synchronous chat rooms are not normally used. The online courses do not require you to "attend" at any specific time of day. They are not self-paced, however, and do require students to begin and end activities, discussion, and assignments, by specific dates.

• Will I still need to buy the textbook(s) for the class?

Yes, you will. You can buy them through a variety of online bookstore that will ship directly to your home or at the TC3 bookstore, which you can access online.

• When do the courses begin?

Check the TC3 Academic Calendar for this information. All fall and spring three- and four-credit online courses (with the exception of the "late start" section of ENGL101:Academic Writing) begin and end at the beginning and the ending of the normal semester.

• What kind of computer hardware and software do I need to take a TC3 online course?

You will need to have frequent access to a computer that is connected to the Internet. the computer will have to have a World Wide Web browser installed. The browser should be Netscape Navigator 3.0 (or higher) or Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 (or higher).

You will also need a word processor, and any other software that the professor may require. If you are taking a computer applications course, you will need to have the appropriate applications software installed.

Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will specify the computer requirements for its service. The minimum requirements for IBM or compatible computers is a Pentium computer (or higher), 32MB RAM (or higher), and a 28.8K baud modem (or higher). Macintosh users must have System 7 (or higher). Check with your ISP for specific requirements.

For more specific hardware questions please contact Bob Yavits or phone 1.607.844.8222, Ext. 4357.

• What if I need help as I'm working?

You can post your questions to the course, where the instructor or other students may answer them when they log in. The instructor will normally let you know when she or he will be online during the course of each week, so that you will have some idea of how soon your questions will be answered. Some instructors will log in nearly every day, but this schedule is up to the individual instructor. Three times per week is usually the very minimum number of login times for students. It is recommended that students log in more often.

If you are taking a SUNY Learning Network course, you can call or e-mail the SLN Helpdesk with any questions of a technical nature. The Helpdesk can be reached at helpdesk@sln.suny.edu or at 1.800.875.6269 or, if you are taking an Angel course, contact Tony DeFranco, or call 1.607.844.8211 and ask for Tony DeFranco.

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• How do I Change My Address?

You may have up to two different addresses. Every student must have a permanent home address. You may also have a local address while attending TC3. A local address is only needed if different from your permanent address. After logging into myTC3, select Maintain Addresses from the left hand menu. You may make changes to you existing address by selecting the edit button next to the address you want to change. To add a local address if you do not have one click on add button. If your E-mail address has changed please make sure to update it in your permanent address.

•How Do I Request a Transcript?

You can either request a transcript online or in writing.