Overview of Online Classes

For more Information, visit our FAQ page.

What are online classes?

Online classes are a convenient way to pursue educational goals for those needing a flexible time/schedule and independent learning locations. If you are interested in completing your degree, enhancing you current job skills, or taking classes for personal enrichment but can not (or do not wish to) attend traditional on-campus classes, then online classes may be right for you.

Online classes are the most common format for Distance Learning. Online classes are taught via the Internet which gives students the flexibility of accessing class information, submitting assignments, and participating in class discussions at a time that is more accommodating to their schedule. This flexibility is not to suggest that there is no structure or deadlines. Just like traditional classroom instruction, online classes require you to be aware of the instructor's requirements and expectations! Although the majority of class work in an online class is asynchronous, classes can have "real-time" elements such as structured discussions at specific times, assignments with specified deadlines, and quizzes/exams that are either online or proctored at a designated location.

An online learning environment is not typically based on lectures, memorization, and tests, but it does require that faculty and students take an active part in the learning process. Critical thinking and applying concepts to real-time events are important class activities. Students interested in online classes should know that the classes are writing-intensive, and require solid computer skills.

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Is an Online Class Right for Me?

Follow this link and take a quick assessment to see if your learning style, preferences, and time constraints will lead you to success in an online class.

self-assessment

Online classes assume a student has a certain level of computer skills. These are required in order to access the Internet, your classroom and content, and other valuable resources.

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What does TCC offer?

Online classes at Tacoma Community College include Full Online (classes delivered via the Internet), Hybrid Online classes (classes taught partially on-campus and partially online), Web Enhanced (normal on-campus class with some web content), and Telecourses (classes on video).

At Tacoma Community College we offer a variety of online classes a wide selection of online credit classes as well as non-credit through Continuing Education.

Full Online classes are held 100% online using course management software such as Blackboard. At TCC we have three types of Fully Online classes: WAOL Blackboard, TCC Blackboard, and Textbook Publisher hosted classes.

Hybrid Online classes combine online learning with traditional (on campus) classroom instruction. Students are expected to attend on campus classes as well as complete online assignments. Online class information and login instructions will be distributed by the instructor at the first class meeting on campus.

Web Enhanced classes meet in class like normal, but utilize course management software such as Blackboard to enhance the class with web content.

Self-Paced CD-ROM based instruction. Orientations are mandatory for these classes.

The classes are not the only thing offered online, students also can access college services online.

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How do I get started?

In order to take an online class through TCC, you must be enrolled at the college. Please take a moment to review the Enrollment Steps. They outline the path you will take and steps necessary to start your TCC experience.

Once you are enrolled at TCC, online classs are available to you as well as traditional classroom instruction. Before signing up for an online class, please review the following information:

There are several types of classes that utilize the internet and course management software, like Blackboard, offered at Tacoma Community College. For a description of the different types, visit the Online Classes page. The type of class you are taking can affect your deadlines for registration and classroom access. Login Instructions.

If you are still unable to access or locate class information after you have followed all of the above information, please contact the online advisor, online@tacomacc.edu, or phone 253.460.3812 or 253.460.3815. You can also contact eLearning at dlearning@tacomacc.edu or Christopher Soran and Andy Duckworth.

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