UNVA Online
As a premier online university since 2005, the University of Northern Virginia began offering degrees online as an option for its diverse student body. The University continuously expands its online programs and offerings of distance education as new technologies have emerged. UNVA’s online degree programs – master‘s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and certificate programs – offer the same accredited curricula as their on-campus equivalents and are competitive with other colleges, online and traditional. Using the two online teaching methods – Virtual Professor and Virtual Classroom – UNVA links all international programs together and puts its faculty and students worldwide into its global network.
UNVA’s accredited online degree programs are designed for professionals who want to complete or advance their education at an online college without compromising quality. We have adopted a state-of-the-art student record system which allows prospective students to do their business on line. Students can register for classes, pay tuition, get grade reports, and handle most administrative interactions online from their student portals. Our business processes have been streamlined to take full advantage of this new technology. All course materials and class activities can be accessed online 24/7 to meet your needs while you are at home, at your office, or on a trip. With the use of innovative course delivery software, our professors deliver quality instruction at a distance.
As with any course UNVA offers, attendance is required. Students participating in an online course must log into their accounts at least twice per week. For more information, please contact the academics office.
Online Academic Planning
Online program academic planning involves using digital tools and platforms to help students create and manage their educational plans, ensuring they meet academic requirements and achieve their goals.
How to study
Learning takes place all at once, with large chunks of information grasped in intuitive leaps, rather than in the gradual accretion of isolated facts, small steps, or habit patterns gained through practice.
Organizing
- The perspective is the organizing principle. Perfectionism for learners is a well-ordered and -designed space with each object in its place and appealingly so.
- With an instinctive sense of balance and completeness. They can tell when something is out of alignment or not truly horizontal or vertical.
Learning Strategies
- Focus on the learning objectives of the class. Meet with the teacher to understand and apply these to your situation.
- Request advanced organizers to help you relate new material to what you already know.
- Look for opportunities to work with, manipulate, and/or engage in new material
Study Material
Ask your teacher for study material. Which of the following does he/she recommend you study?
- Key terms, definitions, important people, and examples
- Enumerations (lists of items)
- Points emphasized by the instructor (or media presentation)
Study Methods
- Find out what type of test is going to be given.
- Check the syllabus
- Call or email your instructor and ask
Online Program Technology Requirements
To succeed in an online program, you’ll need a computer with a processor of 2.4GHz or faster, 4GB of RAM, and a high-speed internet connection (1.5 Mbps upload and download, 4 Mbps preferred). Familiarity with basic computer skills, including using a web browser and common software, is also essential.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the technology requirements for online programs:
Hardware:
- Computer:
A computer (desktop or laptop) is generally required, with a processor of 2.4GHz or faster and 4GB of RAM being recommended.
- Reliable Internet Connection:
A high-speed internet connection is crucial for accessing course materials, participating in online discussions, and submitting assignments. A minimum of 1.5 Mbps upload and download speeds is recommended, with 4 Mbps or better preferred.
- Webcam (Optional but Recommended):
If your program requires video conferencing or online proctoring, a webcam will be necessary.
Software:
- Operating System:
Any operating system that can support the latest compatible web browsers is acceptable.
- Web Browser:
You’ll need a modern web browser like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.
- Software Applications:
You’ll likely need to be comfortable with basic software applications like word processors (Word, Google Docs), presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), and email clients.
- PDF Reader:
You’ll need a PDF reader to access course materials that are in PDF format.
- Other Software:
Depending on the specific requirements of your program, you may need to install other software, such as video conferencing software or online proctoring software.
Computer Literacy Skills:
- Basic Computer Skills:
You should be comfortable with basic computer skills, such as sending and receiving emails, using a web browser, and downloading and installing software.
- File Management:
You should be able to manage files and folders, save files in different formats, and understand basic file formats like PDF, DOC, and TXT.
- Self-Directed Learning:
You should be able to learn new technology skills independently, using online tutorials or other resources.
Student’s Role
In an online program, students are responsible for active participation, self-directed learning, effective time management, and utilizing technology to engage with course materials and peers. They also need to be proactive in seeking clarification and support when needed.
Key Responsibilities and Expectations:
- Active Participation:
Online learning requires active engagement, not just passively consuming information. Students should participate in online discussions, collaborate on projects, and contribute to the learning community.
- Self-Directed Learning:
Students need to take ownership of their learning and be proactive in seeking knowledge and understanding. This includes setting goals, researching topics, and developing strategies to learn effectively.
- Effective Time Management:
Online courses often involve asynchronous learning, meaning students have flexibility in when they access materials and complete assignments. However, this flexibility requires strong time management skills to stay on track and meet deadlines.
- Technology Proficiency:
Students need to be comfortable using the necessary technology for online learning, including learning management systems, communication tools, and other software.
- Proactive Communication:
Students should communicate with their instructors and peers regularly, asking questions, seeking clarification, and providing feedback.
- Collaboration:
Many online programs incorporate collaborative activities, so students should be prepared to work effectively with others in a virtual environment.
- Independent Learning:
Online learning often requires students to learn independently, so they should be able to find information, solve problems, and complete tasks without constant supervision.
- Self-Motivation:
Students must be self-motivated to succeed in an online program, as they are responsible for their learning and progress.
- Persistence:
Online learning can be challenging, so students should be persistent in their efforts and not give up easily.
- Familiarize with the online learning environment:
Students should familiarize themselves with the course syllabus, timeline, and online classroom at the beginning of the course.
Teacher’s Role
In the online program setting, a teacher’s role encompasses designing engaging and accessible course materials, facilitating interactive learning, providing timely feedback, and adapting to diverse learning styles through online tools and platforms.
Course Design and Development:
- Curriculum Adaptation
- Content Creation
- Technology Integration
- Accessibility
Facilitating Learning and Engagement:
- Instruction and Guidance
- Online Discussions
- Feedback and Support
- Personalized Learning
- Motivating Students
Assessment and Evaluation:
- Assessment Strategies
- Grading and Feedback
- Tracking Progress
Online Proctoring
An online proctor oversees and monitors students during online exams remotely, using technology like webcams and microphones to ensure the integrity of the testing process and prevent cheating. Proctoring assessments, online or in-person, safeguards exam and course integrity. This is essential to protecting the value of certification and degree programs. Proctorio offers our users the opportunity and flexibility to achieve their educational and professional goals.
With our remote proctoring services, institutions are able to produce candidates with the necessary skills to succeed throughout life and within their chosen careers.
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