Frequently Asked Questions - Video Conferencing
A PIP is an acronym for picture-in-picture. It allows a presenter to use a section of the video screen to send a still graphic.
An MCU refers to an H.320 bridge which is used to connect multiple compressed digital videoconference sites. The MCU allows for switching among the videoconference sites.
A point-to-point video conference occurs between two sites. By comparison, a multi-point video conference refers to the use of three or more sites. When multiple sites are involved in a single conference or course, they must be connected by a video bridge (MCU). The DLN system has the ability to do point-to-point conferencing as well as multi-point conferencing.
Many students find distance learning a challenging and rewarding educational experience. However, distance learning courses are not for everyone. Depending on their emotional and intellectual maturity level, learning styles, and work habits, some students may need the face-to-face contact and instructor proximity found in the traditional classroom.
Effectiveness studies have been quite consistent in showing that when used in business, military training, and adult learning, there is no significant difference in effectiveness between distance learning and traditional instruction methods, and student attitudes are generally positive about the experience (source: the United States Distance Learning Association).
It allows students at distant locations to access courses and training that would otherwise be unavailable at their schools. Distance learning allows students to reduce the time and cost of travel to a university campus to take a class. It allows school districts to expand their curriculum offerings by sharing classes with other districts and by offering dual/concurrent enrollment courses. Distance learning also provides community members with opportunities to participate in specialized training seminars and to take continuing education courses.
The biggest difference is that you must take a much more active role in your own education. In the distance education environment, you will not be able to sit back passively and expect to pass the course. To get the most out of the course, you must be able to communicate effectively with fellow students and the instructor. Whatever communication technology is being used—ITV, Internet, or Telecourses—you must be prepared to participate.
A distance learning class is one in which the students are geographically separated from the instructor. Distance education courses use a variety of teaching methods, strategies, and technologies. There are Interactive Videoconferencing (ITV) courses, Online courses (taught using the Internet), Telecourses (videotaped lessons) and ‘Hybrid’ courses that combine several different technologies with a traditional face-to-face component.
If a final exam link appears on the Study Plan page of your online course then you must take the final exam and pass it before your online course is complete. Please refer to any special final exam instructions that may appear in your online course.
Students in the state of Florida might be subject to special requirements such as timed final exams or the ability to only launch the final exam one time.
Online course content mirrors exactly what you would find in our print correspondence courses, with added enhancements. Each course may include additional examples, more detailed coverage of certain topics, and extra questions to help you learn more effectively. The online courses also include a glossary. Like the books used in home study, our online courses are divided into several individual lessons, each containing a set of up-front learning objectives as well as end-of-lesson reviews.
