Future students
Close the distance on online learning
Attend our free session and learn how to navigate in your virtual classroom. Students must register to attend this free, interactive workshop.
Please note: you must be registered in a course to attend.
Learn how to:
- Navigate the OntarioLearn eportal site;
- Familiarize yourself with course material and desktop;
- Use quick tips for submitting assignments, posting discussions, interacting with your instructor and classmates and sending e-mails;
- Receive personalized instruction in an on-campus classroom setting to assist you with getting comfortable in your online environment; and
- Learn how not to miss the important things in your course.
Session dates:
- Wednesday, January 16 at 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, January 19 at 9:30 a.m.
- Wednesday, May 15 at 6:30 p.m.
To reserve a spot, please visit the Online Learning Student Orientation page.
Welcome to the virtual classroom!
Students who are interested in maximum flexibility may want to consider online education. Join the many students who are experiencing online learning without ever leaving their home or office. Update your skills, discover a new talent or chart a career path at your convenience, all while working within your own schedule. Our virtual classrooms are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
How does online learning work?
Online courses are offered through a consortium of 22 Ontario Colleges called OntarioLearn. Courses are facilitated by an instructor who is available to answer questions, encourage discussion on course topics and provide feedback.
Courses are delivered through a variety of software platforms. The online system serves as a virtual classroom that students may attend any time that suits them. Here, they are able to:
- Receive/submit assignments;
- Post questions;
- Interact with the instructor and fellow classmates for group work; and
- Receive general instruction through conference based chats or discussions.
What do I need?
Computer
You will need regular access to a computer with an Internet connection and web access for the duration of your course. A Macintosh or PC system with at least a Pentium II 400 MHz/ G3 processor is required as is a reasonably up-to-date operating system (at least Windows 2000) or Mac OS 9x, and 128 MB of RAM.
Internet access
Students must access and use their own Internet account to connect to their online courses. An Internet account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) providing SLIP/PPP connections is required (freenet accounts will not work).
High speed connections are recommended for the ideal learning experience, however a 56k dial-up connection will work. Cable or DLS connections will also work.
Web browser
A graphical browser such as Internet Explorer (version 6.0 or better) or Firefox is required. In some instances, it may be necessary for some users to upgrade their web browser programs. Technical assistance is available.
E-mail
Students will require a personal e-mail account.
Software
Most courses require word processing software. Individual courses may have additional technical and/or software requirements. Please note that some of this additional software may not be compatible with a Macintosh.
