Instructors use tools to make their entire course online or to complement their face-to-face course. Instructors may post their syllabi, course calendar, assignments, quizzes, student evaluations as well as use email, discussion boards, and chat rooms to enhance their course. See course syllabus for details.

Students: Frequently Asked Questions for Distance Learning

How do I find the web site and course information for online courses?
Check the class information listed in Pantherweb for course information.

Do all online courses use Blackboard Learning System Enterprise CE?
Most online, hybrid and component courses do use Blackboard. See information in Pantherweb.

Does the college limit enrollments in online courses?
Yes, classes do fill. The college maintains the same class size for online classes as on campus classes.

How do students register for online courses and are they accredited?
PBCC students will register for the online courses just like any other class at the college. All classes at PBCC are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and have the same pre-requisites.

Are these classes eligible for financial aid?
Application packets are available at each campus Student Financial Aid Office. To apply, complete the Free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Include PBCC as your institution of choice (Federal School Code #001512), PBCC will receive your financial aid information electronically and a green paper Student Aid Report (SAR) will be sent to you for your records as long as PBCC is listed as your school of choice, you will not need to submit your SAR to our office.

How is the online class different from the traditional on-campus class?
Students will obtain all of their course materials, lectures, assignments, projects, testing schedule online. Everyone will interact online via email, discussion boards, chat sessions, who's online as well as other ways as determined by each faculty member.

What support services are provided to students?
See these links to Student Services for a complete listing and also advising services.

Do students take tests online or at a testing center?
Some tests are online, some with the instructor while others will take exams at one of the PBCC testing centers. For those students who do not reside in the Palm Beach County area but need to take exams at a testing center, your instructor will work with you to find a proctored site.

How will I know if I will be a successful online student?
Determine your success: Quizzes and Success Tips for your review.

Where do I obtain the needed textbooks and materials?
Students can stop by the college bookstore or buy the materials online. Check your course syllabus for ISBN numbers and other materials identified by the instructor.

How often do I need to check my online class site and how do I receive feedback?
Check the course site often each week for announcements, reminders, and deadlines to complete all course activities. Each student's participation in the course is tracked by Blackboard and can assist the faculty evaluate the student's progress. Students will receive all feedback, comments and grades online.

Are their some "netiquette" rules for online courses?
Yes. Use these links as needed: Email replies, and Email Etiquette

What are the computer requirements and basic competencies?
Review the requirements for your computer and basic competencies skills. Each student is responsible to ensuring their computer will function properly when taking online classes. Computers on campus are available in the computer labs for student usage.

Can I use any word processing package to open or send attachments files in my course?
Contact your instructor for any special software requirements. Most faculty use Microsoft Office.

What do I do if I forget my password or need assistance?
Contact the Administrator or the PBCC Student Helpdesk (561.868.4000) with:

• your full name
• your PBCC Student ID number
• course with the reference number
• details of the assistance needed and any error messages