FAQs and Expectations of an Online Class

Student and Faculty Responsibilities

What You Need to Know
Student and Faculty Expectations

Is the Asynchronous Online course that I plan to take Self-Paced?

No. These courses are asynchronous, which is not the same thing as being self-paced. Asynchronous means that there is no live weekly session with an instructor. Asynchronous online classes DO have regular deadlines which can be found in each Learning Module. By the deadline, you will be expected to read material, watch videos or look at PowerPoints, as well as do your homework assignment or post on a discussion board. All asynchronous online courses have regular deadlines, and students must adhere to those deadlines to succeed in their courses.

What Kind of Technology Do I Need?

Asynchronous Online courses require that you have a high-speed internet connection, updated web browsing software, a webcam, and access to a variety of software programs. Additionally, each undergraduate student enrolled in an asynchronous online course is required to have the following technical resources:

What Kind of Assignments Will I Encounter?

Just like in an in-person class, you will encounter a wide variety of assignments throughout your online learning experience. Types of assignments can include:

Students typically enjoy the flexibility of asynchronous online courses. They can do their work at a time and in a place that they choose, rather than on a fixed schedule. Asynchronous online courses enable students to balance school work with other work/life demands. That means you can do all the work for your asynchronous online course at 6 AM, 2 PM or midnight, or any time that is convenient for you. Asynchronous online courses are designed to be as rigorous as face-to-face classes, but require more self-discipline, motivation, and careful written communication. Students spend a minimum of 6-9 hours per week on their online courses, although this number can vary.

Are Asynchronous Online Classes Completely Self-Directed? Will I do all my work independently?

Not at all! In an asynchronous online course, you will connect with your peers' material. Your instructors may include collaborative assignments or games to build a learning community. You will interact with your instructor through feedback and comments on your assignments. In fact, a regular part of your asynchronous online course will include reading the posts of your classmates and responding to them. Participation is important in asynchronous online courses, and you'll find that most online courses require a strong commitment to engaging with and responding to your peers.

What are some tips to help me succeed in my Asynchronous Online Class?

Are All Courses Available as Asynchronous Online Courses?

No. Each department determines which of their classes are appropriate for online delivery, and work with their faculty to ensure the development of an online course that matches the rigor and content delivery as a face-to-face class.

How do I Take an Exam Online?

Exams
In addition to weekly learning activities, each online course includes a midterm and a final exam. Students are informed about exam dates and times in the course syllabus before the start of the semester. Exams must be taken on the scheduled date and time.

Midterm Exams
Midterms are scheduled by faculty members and are administered online through Honorlock an online proctoring company. Faculty members will inform students regarding the midterm date in their course syllabus.

Final Exams

Where do I go for Help?

At Touro, we want you to always feel supported in your educational journey. As you move through an asynchronous online course, your professor should be your first point of contact for any help you might need. You can post in the "Ask Your Instructor Board," or send them an email with your question. Additional help includes:

Student orientation - Expectation Page-1.gif