Taking an Online Course
Before registering for an online course, be sure to review both the meeting schedule and any class notes. These provide important details about required live class sessions and the time commitment expected for the course.
If an online course is listed with an ARR (Arranged) meeting pattern and does not include any class notes, the course is fully asynchronous, meaning there are no required live meetings. However, many SMU online courses include some synchronous components, such as live class sessions or virtual meetings.
Any required online class meetings will be listed in the course schedule, and additional details about synchronous participation expectations will be included in the class notes. This information can help you choose courses that fit your schedule and learning preferences.
Is an online class a good fit?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Will I have reliable Wi-Fi?
- No: An online course is not a good option.
- Yes: Continue to the next question.
- Do I have a job or internship?
- Yes: Consider whether you’ll have enough time and flexibility to keep up with the course and attend scheduled class sessions.
- No: Continue to the next question.
- Will I be traveling?
- Yes: Make sure you’ll have reliable internet, can meet assignment, exam, and attendance requirements, and account for time-zone differences.
- No: An online course may be a good fit.
- Is the class a language course?
- Yes: Consider whether you can attend scheduled meetings and devote the required 40 hours a week to coursework.
- No: An online course may be a good fit.
Remember: Every situation is different. Consider your schedule, commitments, and learning needs before choosing an online course.