Online Learning FAQs
New online learners have many questions. We hope these will help you get to the bottom of yours.
Fisher defines an online learning course as one that is taught primarily through the campus course management system, Brightspace, with the incorporation of other educational technologies where appropriate and that requires no face-to-face meetings on campus throughout the duration of the course.
Fisher defines a hybrid course as a course that reduces some portion of the normal seat time and replaces that time with online learning activities, including asynchronous discussions and other online interactions. Anywhere from 33 - 66% of the traditional seat time may be transitioned to online components to be considered a hybrid course.
Online courses are offered in either 7 week or 14 week terms. An online student can expect to spend approximately 10 hours per week in a 14 week course and 20 hours per week in a 7 week course completing the necessary course activities.
Academic CalendarsOnline courses are taught through the campus course management system, Brightspace. Courses are taught primarily in an asynchronous fashion, meaning that you can complete assignments at a time that is convenient for you within a given time period defined by the instructor. You will log into Brightspace on a regular basis to access course materials, view video lectures and participate in discussion activities with the class. You will also work in small groups and individually on projects and submit your work to the instructor through Brightspace. Occasionally, some courses may incorporate synchronous, real-time activities, such as student group meetings, student presentations, or listening to guest speakers.
In order for a current undergraduate Fisher student to be eligible to take an online course, he or she should have sophomore status or above. No such restriction applies to graduate students or non-matriculated students. There are also no restrictions on enrollment in hybrid courses.
You will need to have a computer, webcam, a headset with a microphone, and a high-speed Internet connection. For more specific details and recommendations, please see these detailed technology requirements.
Online Student Technology Requirements