eLearning (Distance Learning)

Pensacola State College is committed to providing every student with a consistent, comprehensive, and user friendly eLearning environment to maximize scheduling flexibility and to reduce travel time.

Most eLearning opportunities are college credit courses that are part of a baccalaureate, Associate in Arts, or Associate in Science program of study. These courses cover the same material at the same level of academic rigor as in the traditional classroom environment; however, most students find online learning to be more challenging than classroom learning. Developmental education courses and Vocational Certificate (clock hour) courses are not available through eLearning. The student utilizing VA benefits should contact the Veterans Services office in Building 6 on the Pensacola Campus or by email at veterans@pensacolastate.edu to discuss using VA benefits for online coursework.  The Pensacola State College Collegiate High School offers two courses in the eLearning environment.

The extent to which a student may engage in eLearning is described in the following course models.

1. Distance Learning Courses: No campus visits are required. All distance learning courses carry an $8.33 per credit hour Distance Learning Fee in addition to tuition. Lower level distance learning courses have section numbers in the 9500s, 9600s, or 9700s. Distance learning courses at the baccalaureate level have section numbers in the 7100s.
2. Hybrid Courses: Campus visits are reduced and substituted with online instruction. Hybrid courses do not carry a Distance Learning Fee.  Lower level hybrid courses have section numbers in the 2400s; baccalaureate level hybrid courses have section numbers from 7000-7049.
3. Traditional Courses: The majority of college-credit courses now incorporate some degree of eLearning methods and technology. Although a traditional face-to-face course meets on campus for all instruction, the instructor often includes supplemental course materials via the internet.

Is distance learning right for you?

1. Does your schedule not allow you to take traditional college classes?
2. Do you have excellent time management skills?
3. Are you are self-motivated?
4. Do you have a good working knowledge of computer technology and the internet?
5. Do you have routine access to a computer that meets the following criteria?

• Minimum Operating System Requirements:  Windows 7, Mac OSX 10.6, Linux-Chrome OS.
• Browser Requirements: Current version of Internet Explorer, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.
• A reliable Internet connection (broadband access recommended, i.e., cable or DSL).

Most problems experienced by distance learning students involve waiting until the last minute to complete tasks and using a computer that does not meet the specifications listed above. Neither problem will excuse a student from grade penalties assessed due to late or incomplete work.

Important things to do prior to registration

1. Visit the Pensacola State College eLearning website for additional information: www.pensacolastate.edu/elearning.
2. Request access to and complete the eLearning Course Preview on the eLearning website.

For questions regarding eLearning at Pensacola State College, call (850) 484-1238 or email elearning@pensacolastate.edu.