Distance Learning

Distance Learning (DL) is an educational format that allows learning to take place when the student and the instructor are physically separated in both time and location. At RCC, these courses are delivered through the Internet, providing flexibility for students. Despite the physical separation, the courses maintain the same course description, core content, and credit hours as traditional in-person courses.

How It Works

RCC offers several modalities of Distance Learning courses, providing students with options to best fit their schedules and educational needs.

1. Online “O”
   1. 100% of instruction delivered online.
   2. Asynchronous delivery (no scheduled live sessions).
   3. Example: HIS 131 O1
       
2. Hyflex “HF”
   1. Hyflex courses offer 100% of instruction both in traditional face-to-face (on-campus) settings and through online platforms.
   2. Students have the flexibility to choose their mode of attendance for each class session, opting for either in-person or online participation.
   3. Face-to-face meeting times are determined by the respective department.
   4. Regardless of attendance preference, students enrolled in Hyflex courses are required to have reliable internet access and complete assigned online activities. This ensures consistent engagement with course materials and activities..
   5. Example: HIS 131 HFD1
       
3. Hybrid “H”
   1. Hybrid courses deliver a majority of instruction (more than 50% but less than 100%) through online platforms, combining online learning with required on-campus sessions..
   2. These courses integrate traditional face-to-face instruction with mandatory online assignments and activities.
   3. Scheduled face-to-face meeting times are determined by the respective department.
   4. Students enrolled in Hybrid courses must have reliable internet access and be prepared to complete assigned online coursework in addition to attending scheduled on-campus meetings.
   5. Example: HIS 131 HYD1
       
4. Blended “B”
   1. Blended courses provide a 50/50 balance of online and on-campus instruction, integrating online learning with required in-person sessions
   2. These courses integrate traditional face-to-face instruction with mandatory online assignments and activities.
   3. Scheduled face-to-face meeting times are determined by the respective department.
   4. Students enrolled in Hybrid courses must have reliable internet access and be prepared to complete assigned online coursework in addition to attending scheduled on-campus meetings.
   5. Example: HIS 131 BD1
       

Proctor Policy

RCC is continuously researching best practices regarding verifying the identity of students enrolling in and completing online courses. In an effort to ensure student identification and enhance student integrity, RCC has made available three ways a student can complete a proctor exam.
 

A.  Respondus Lockdown Browser, along with the Respondus Monitor software.  

1.  Respondus Lockdown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment preventing students from accessing other applications including messaging, screen-sharing, virtual machines and network applications. Print, screen capture, keyboard shortcuts, task switching and copy/paste are also disabled.  
2. Respondus Monitor is a software product that provides authentication for student identity, enabling a student to take online assessments in a non-proctored environment. When an instructor delivers an assessment using Respondus Monitor, a “startup sequence” includes a webcam check and other requirements set by the instructor, such as showing identification or making a short video of the exam environment. Only the instructor can review video recordings or data from the exam session.
3. The instructor may schedule a time and location at the College to administer the exam.
    

B.  Test with the Instructor.

1. The student may schedule a time to come to campus and test with the instructor at a agreed upon date, time, and location.
    

C.  Test with an Approved Proctor.

1. The student may obtain an instructor approved proctor to administer exams. Students must submit names, positions, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of the potential proctors and locations where exams can be administered. Proctors and locations must meet with the approval of the instructor. Once an instructor approves a proctor and testing procedure, the RCC instructor will contact the proctor and arrange for delivery and return of the exam. The instructor, proctor, and student will agree upon the time and parameters under which the exam is given. Students are responsible for any fees charged by proctors. If this proctor option is selected, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain an acceptable proctor.
    
2. Qualified Proctored may be:              
   1. Administrators of recognized private testing centers
   2. Administrators or full-time faculty at accredited universities, colleges, or community colleges.
   3. Principals, associate/assistant principals, and counselors of US public schools
   4. US Forces Military Commanders of Field Grade or above
   5. Education Services Officers on US military installations within the US or overseas
   6. US embassy or consulate officials.
   7. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain an acceptable proctor. The process of identifying a proctor, obtaining approval, and exam coordination takes time. Students must make arrangements for a proctor and testing location at least two weeks prior to an examination. Failure to do so may result in a zero for the examination.
   8. Qualified Proctors may Not Be Friends or Family Members!

Distance Learning Education Grading System

The grading system of the College will be used. The final letter grade of the course, issued by the College, will be posted to the student transcript.

State Authorization and Online Learning

Information about State Authorization and Online Learning, Complaint Procedures and Processes, and Professional Licensure is located on the RCC website at Online & Distance Education [opens in a new tab]>Policies & Authorization/Student Complaints>State Authorization.

Grade Appeals Process

For a complete description of Robeson Community College’s grade appeals process, please refer to the section on Grade Appeals Process [opens in new tab]   or you may access it under Academic Policies and Procedures.