E-learning at Kingston

FAQ: E-learning

The Online Courseroom Experience:

• Is it hard to learn how to use the online courseroom?
• How do I receive and hand in assignments?
• How do I interact with my instructor and classmates?
• What kind of support can I expect from faculty and advisors?

The Schedule

• What time are classes held?
• Do classes have specific start and end dates?
• How long will my program take me to complete?

Enrolling at Kingston:

• How will I know which classes to take?
• How and when do I enroll in online courses?

Is it hard to learn how to use the online courseroom?

Not at all. Using the online courseroom is similar to using e-mail, your computer at work, or any basic software program.

For most degree programs, the first course you will take is an introduction to Kingston's courseroom and online learning in general. The Learner Success Lab is designed to provide new learners the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their online degree programs. The lab course familiarizes learners with the Kingston online environment and support resources provided to ensure success. Learners build skills in the selection and use of methods, techniques, and library resources. Working with their academic advisors, learners will develop a Degree Completion Plan that outlines a path to earning a Kingston University degree online.

How do I receive and hand in assignments?

How do I interact with my instructor and classmates?

Kingston e-learners find that one of the most exciting advantages to our e-learning environment is the ongoing opportunity to interact online, by phone, and in person with instructors and other learners.

• By e-mail: Students and instructors exchange email addresses at the beginning of each course, which enables ongoing discussion outside of the online courseroom.
• By phone: You are free to exchange phone numbers with classmates.
• Using online discussion threads: Track topical discussions or respond to questions posed by your instructor.
• During Colloquium: If your program includes residential colloquia, you will have the opportunity to interact face-to-face with faculty, peers, mentors, and advisors.

What kind of support can I expect from faculty and advisors?

Learners can contact faculty members and advisors via e-mail as long as they are registered in Kingston courses. In some Kingston MS and all PhD programs, students participate in residential colloquia, which offer an ongoing opportunity to receive in-person support from faculty.

What time are classes held?

Any time, day or night, you can access your class and participate via our online courseroom, as long as you have an Internet connection. Students usually need to log in 2-5 times each week, but there is no set class schedule so you can "attend class" anytime. Typically, Kingston learners spend an average of 13 hours per week per course, with times varying from 5 to 20 hours per course depending on such factors as number of course credit hours, degree program, and learner's prior knowledge.

Do classes have specific start and end dates?

• Yes, each Kingston course has a designated start and end date. Most courses run quarterly lasting about three months. Some courses are six weeks in length, and a few courses are one month in length.

How long will my program take me to complete?

The amount of time you will need to earn your degree depends on several factors, including:

• The program you enroll in
• Whether you transfer in previously earned college or university credit
• Whether you receive credit for prior learning
• How many classes you take at one time

How will I know which classes to take?

Your class options and program requirements are easily accessible on this web site. Each program has its own section, which includes nearly everything you need to know about completing your degree. To find your program of interest, visit the Schools & Programs section. Or, call 1-716-393-1133 and speak with an enrollment counselor who can help you choose and map out the program that is right for you. View our call hours.

How and when do I enroll in online courses?

Many Kingston programs accept new students on a monthly basis. Certain programs accept new students at the beginning of each academic quarter. Check with your enrollment director on the options available to you.

To determine specific enrollment deadlines, find your specific program in Schools & Programs, or call an enrollment counselor at 1-716-393-1133 for personal assistance. View our call hours.