Student FAQs
What is Distance Learning?
Distance Learning courses use a variety of online/Web/media materials to offer college classes that you can complete in a time frame suited to your personal schedule, primarily in your own home.
Do Distance Learning students have the same benefits as other Pierce College students?
Of course! Take a copy of your registration to the student government office and you will be issued a student ID card. Pierce College offers a variety of benefits for students. See the “Student Life” and “Student Services” sections of the District Web site for more details.
What if I can't finish my class in one quarter?
The type of course governs the steps to take if you cannnot complete the course requirements in one quarter. Most instructors of “Continuous Entry” courses will give a “Z” in–progress grade and an additional quarter to finish. “Quarterly Scheduled” courses have the option of an “I” incomplete grade that requires a signed agreement dictating what is needed to complete the course work and in what time frame. Instructors determine the availability of this option in their courses. In either case, read the syllabus carefully to determine your grading options.
It is your responsibility to confirm extensions of your coursework beyond the quarter when you registered with your instructor. Read your course syllabus carefully, as some instructors have requirements you must fulfill before they will give an "in–progress" grade. Grade changes cannot be made after a full year from the date the grade was posted.
Students using Financial Aid generally must complete the course in the term they started it, or will risk probation and repayment of funds. Contact the Financial Aid office early to learn the consequences of not completing your course.
Who do I contact if I have problems?
Stay in close contact with your instructor. If you have questions about assignments, course objectives or test results, your instructor can help you. The course syllabus outlines your instructor's office hours and telephone number. You may speak over the phone or make an appointment to meet in person. If you need general information, or information regarding video rentals, contact the Distance Learning office. If you are in an online course at http://waol.blackboard.com, note the Helpdesk contact information provided at the login screen.
What if I want to withdraw from or drop a class?
Follow the District procedures for withdrawing from a course. Different dates for refund amounts apply depending on the type of class and when you withdraw. It is strongly encouraged that you consult with your instructor before making this important decision. You may have options that you've not explored to complete assignments, etc.
Where do I buy my books?
The Fort Steilacoom and Puyallup bookstores stock all Pierce College Online (PCOL)", “Continuous Entry” and “Quarterly Schedule” course books, study guides and instructor selected materials. You can look-up your books online, pay and specify how you want them delivered (or pick them up "will call") from the Bookstore's online system.
WahingtonOnline (WAOL) has a special arrangement for course materials. If you are taking a WashingtonOnline course, see your Welcome Letter for more information.
How can I watch the videos for my class?
KBTC/Channel 28 broadcasts several telecourses; their schedule appears in the Tacoma News Tribune, or you can visit the KBTC web site.
CollegeVision also plays telecourse programs throughout the week. This cable channel airs on channel 28 on AT&T in both the city of Tacoma and in Pierce County while Click! airs CollegeVision on channel 89.
Videotapes of the programs can be viewed at the campus libraries, or you can check them out for home viewing. Check your public library catalogs, too.
If you prefer the convenience of home viewing, you can lease a set of videos in DVD format for $30 for three months from the Distance Learning office. Supplies are limited. You might try searching online because some of the programs can be found "streamed" on the Web, too.
Where do I take tests?
Unless described differently in your course syllabus, exams are administered at the Testing Center at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom and the Library at Pierce College Puyallup.
No appointment is necessary during regularly scheduled hours; however, you will need to make special arrangements during college breaks or when major tests fill the center. Review the Testing Center schedule or call before coming to campus.
For students who cannot visit these sites conveniently, student–identified, college–approved, exam “proctors” can be arranged in most instances. Contact the Distance Learning office for more information. This can take time to arrange, so start early!
Will my Distance Learning course transfer to a four–year school?
Absolutely! Distance Learning courses will appear exactly the same as the equivalent on–campus course and should transfer to the same extent. If you are concerned about the transferability of any course, check with the Advising Center or the institution to which you are transferring.
Can I receive financial aid and/or military tuition assistance for Distance Learning classes?
Distance Learning students are entitled to Financial Aid opportunities, however, certain restrictions apply. If you are using Financial Aid or military Tuition Assistance for your Distance Learning courses, you will only have one quarter to complete the course. For more information, contact the Financial Aid office or Military Programs.
How do I check my grades?
Grades are not mailed to students. Visit Student Online Services to get your grades. Contact your instructor if you have any questions regarding the grade you received.
