Frequently Asked Questions about Distance Learning

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Web-based courses: PVCC courses that can be taken anywhere there is access to the Internet. Offers flexible scheduling and no fixed class times. Students may be required to take midterm and final exams in a proctored environment.

Interactive video courses: live, two-way web-conferencing classes taken on the PVCC campus through the college's network.

Where do I go for more information on the PVCC Distance Learning programs?
For more information about distance learning at PVCC, please contact The Center for Excellence in Instruction at 434-961-5316.

Where can I find course descriptions and requirements?
The course descriptions and prerequisites are listed in the PVCC class Schedule.

What are the costs of Distance Learning courses?
Distance Learning tuition fees are the same as those for on-campus courses.

How can I register for Distance Learning Courses?
Registration procedures for Distance Learning courses are the same as procedures for on-campus courses. For more information, contact the Admissions Office at 434-961-6551.

How can I get my textbooks?
You may purchase your textbooks at the PVCC bookstore.

When does class start?
An online course starts the same date as other PVCC scheduled courses.
It is the student's responsibility to initiate participation in each online class by contacting the professor. The student should complete the online orientation, then find Username and Set Password at MyPVCC, and finally log in to Blackboard, go to their course site, and send the professor an email with the following information:
*Full name
*Email address (check spelling)

Will I need to come to the PVCC campus?
Occasionally, you may also need to take proctored exams in the PVCC Learning Center or in another approved proctored testing site. See your course syllabus.

How do I communicate with my instructor?
There are many methods of communication available, depending on the course you are taking. Most instructors encourage communication via Discussion Boards, virtual office hours through virtual chat, e-mail and phone.

What if I don't have Internet at home?
Online students must be proficient users of the World Wide Web and e-mail and must provide their own reliable, regular access to the Internet ( they may use PVCC open computer labs).

I can't log into Blackboard. What do I do?
First, contact your instructor and make sure that you are enrolled in the course. They may also be able to resolve username and/or password problems. You may also contact the Blackboard System Administrator at bbsupport@pvcc.edu or call (434) 961-5316.

For more information about Distance Learning at PVCC, contact Colleen at ckehoe@pvcc.edu or call 434.961.5305.