Online Basics
Is online learning for you?
Immaculata provides prospective students with a sneak peak at the online learning environment. Click here to see what your online experience will be like. General information about taking an online course can be accessed from the Immaculata WebCT page under the “Student Resources” options.
About the Curriculum
Immaculata University has adopted a rigorous set of standards for developing and reviewing its online program. Using the latest academic guidelines, each course provides updated content delivered using best practices for online teaching and learning.
Online learning is successful because of vigorous teacher-learner and learner-learner interaction, ensuring that each student actively participates in the learning process.
Each course in the BA in Organization Dynamics program is seven weeks in length, allowing students to complete two courses in each fall, spring, and summer session. Liberal arts and elective online courses often are fourteen weeks in length, but may also be offered in shorter time frames.
Tools Required
Immaculata’s online program provides much of the learning material students require. Students are expected to have access to a computer with appropriate technical parameters (IUOnline Technology Requirements), and they may be required to purchase additional materials. Such materials may include textbooks, learning instruments, hardware or software.
Skills and Motivation
To be successful in an online program, students need to be self-motivated and comfortable using a computer. Necessary computer skills include familiarity with the Windows environment, the mouse, scroll bars, and menu items, and the ability to open and close files, to navigate and search the Internet, and to send and receive e-mail with attachments.
Program Delivery
The IU Online program is offered primarily in an asynchronous format; faculty and learners interact via the course’s various communication tools, including discussion boards and email. Instructors may schedule live sessions during which students and teacher interact in real time.
Course Content
All relevant dates and requirements of a course are conveyed via the course’s web site. This includes assignments, examinations, evaluation and grading criteria, as well as the time line. Students may also view their progress in the course on its site.
The Learning Community
Online learners in the accelerated degree completion program are an active, integrated group. Connections with fellow learners, support and encouragement from course instructors, and numerous support staff throughout the university make the online experience a rewarding one.