eLearning - Frequently Asked Questions
Do eLearning students receive the same benefits as traditional Pierce College students?
Of course! To access Pierce College services, you must take your registration information to the Students Programs office (located on the fourth level of the Cascade building at Pierce Fort Steilacoom and in Room C-210 at Pierce Puyallup) to be issued a student ID card. This card guarantees you receive all the benefits of traditional students.
What if I can't finish my class in a single quarter?
The steps you need to take depend on the type of course. Read your course syllabus to know the specifics for your specific course. The following options may be available:
- Continuous Entry: Most instructors will give you a Z (an in-progress grade) if you need an additional quarter in order to finish. Check with your instructor to see if this option is available.
- Quarterly Schedule: You may (depending on the instructor's discretion) have the option of receiving an I (incomplete) grade, but this requires you sign an agreement acknowledging the amount of work that needs to be done and establishing a time deadline for its completion.
If you are receiving financial aid, it is important that you understand that your aid amount is often dependent on you finishing the course on time. You risk probation or immediate repayment of funds if you do not complete your course on time. Contact the Financial Aid office for additional details.
Who do I contact if I have problems?
Stay in close contact with your instructor (contact information is included in your syllabus). They can help you with questions about assignments, course objectives, test results, and other concerns specific to the course. For more general information on eLearning, contact the eLearning office. If you are currently in an online course via Angel, access the HelpDesk from the login screen.
What if I want to withdraw from or drop a class?
All eLearning courses use the same withdrawal/refund policy as traditional Pierce College courses. It is strongly recommended that you first consult with your instructor to discuss your options before taking this step.
Where do I buy my books?
The campus bookstores stock all the books, study guides, and other materials for Pierce College Online, Continuous Entry, and Quarterly Schedule eLearning courses. The bookstores' online system allows you to select and pay for your books online, and choose to have them delivered or made ready for you to pickup at the bookstores.
For all WashingtonOnline courses, materials are available from the WAOL website.
How do I watch the videos required for my class?
There are several options available:
- KBTC/Channel 28 broadcasts several telecourses. The complete programming schedule is available on the KBTC website link.
- CollegeVision airs telecourses throughout the week. This program airs on Channel 28 on AT&T in Pierce County.
- Videotapes of the programs can be viewed at the campus libraries or checked out for viewing at home. Public libraries may have the videos, as well. Contact your local branch to check availability.
- The eLearning office leases DVD copies of course programs for $30 for three months. Supplies are limited.
- A limited number of programs are available as streaming videos online.
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 in the library at Pierce College Puyallup. You will not need an appointment if you take your exam during normal operating hours for those centers. Special appointments may be made to take exams during college breaks or other times when those facilities are closed. If you're planning to take a test, it is advised that you call ahead to either the Testing Center at Fort Steilacoom or the library at Puyallup to ensure you're able to take the exam.
For students who are unable to visit either the Fort Steilacoom or Puyallup campuses, contact the eLearning office to arrange to have an exam proctor administer your exam at a location that's convenient for you.
Will eLearning classes transfer to four-year colleges and universities?
Absolutely! In fact, eLearning courses appear exactly the same as traditional courses on your transcript. If you're concerned about the transferability of a particular course, check with the Advising Center or contact the institution to which you plan to transfer.
Can I receive financial aid and/or military tuition assistance for eLearning classes?
eLearning students are entitled to financial aid opportunities, though certain restrictions do apply. If you are using financial aid or military tuition assistance for your eLearning courses, you have only one quarter to complete those courses. For more information, contact the Financial Aid office or the Pierce College Military Program.
How do I check my grades?
To view your grades, visit Student Online Services. Grades are only available online and will not be mailed to you. If you have questions about your grade, contact your instructor.
How do out-of-state students address issues or file complaints?
Students needing to address issues or file a grievance can do so online. Details, directions, and procedures are outlined on the Grievances Policy page.
In compliance with the Higher Education Opportunities Act of 2008, the U.S. Department of Education conducted a Negotiated Rule Making Process in 2010, requiring that institutions offering distance education provide enrolled and prospective students with contact information for filing complaints with its accrediting agency and with the appropriate state agency for handling complaints in the student's state. Below is information on Pierce College's accrediting agency, followed by a document listing all states' agencies responsible for complaints regarding out-of-state distance education programs.
Pierce College Accreditation contact information and Complaint Resolution Contacts by State.
Contact eLearning
eLearning Office
Voice: (253) 964-6244
Voice (Toll Free): (877) 353-6763
Mary Davis
Program Support Supervisor
(253) 964-6244
Earl Sallade
Instructional and Tech Support
(253) 912-3768
Tony Grace
Retention Specialist
(253) 912-3778
Edward Bachmann
Director of eLearning
(253) 964-6377
