Frequently Asked Questions: Online SBE Classes

1.    How are SBE online courses delivered?  A mix of synchronous and asynchronous designs using Zoom or Microsoft Teams platforms.  
2.    Do I need to log in to a course at certain times?  For the synchronous class session, you will need to join the Zoom or Microsoft Teams session.  The faculty member sends the class an invitation with the link for joining the meeting.
3.    Do I need to purchase additional material?  Undergraduate textbooks are provided through the UWRF Textbook Services.  Class fees cover other material if required, for example, simulations or design material.   

 
1.    How do I access an online class?  Class material can be accessed via the course management system.  Once you are enrolled in a class, you will have access to material posted on CANVAS.  The material may be used for both asynchronous work and synchronous class sessions.
2.    How do I access a Synchronous class session?  You will need to join the Zoom or Microsoft Teams session.  The faculty member sends the class an invitation with the link for joining the meeting.
3.    What are the technical requirements to participate in the online courses?  A Windows or Mac computer.  Any system purchased in the last few years should be sufficient.  It is recommended that you have Windows 8 or higher or MacOS 10.8 are higher, 1.5 GHz Intel or AMD processor, 4 GB RAM, and 10 GB free drive space for storing and working with videos.  Your computer may already have an appropriate microphone and camera.  To enhance your experience, you may want to have a USB webcam and a headset. 
4.    What bandwidth do I need to engage with the course content and videos?   You are required to have a reliable high speed internet connection.  You do want to have good broadband internet connections.  Your browser performance will affect your online experience.  We recommend a minimum of 10 Mbps downstream and 2 Mbps upstream.  We recognize that internet connectivity and quality can vary based on provider, time of day, and location.  To avoid browser-based issues and to ensure the best experience, we recommend that you update your browser to its latest version.
5.    Are Chromebooks sufficient?  Chromebook and tables are not sufficient to meet the minimum expectations of our online courses.
 

1.    Is advanced preparation for course engagement required?  Yes.  Courses are delivered in an 8-week format and faculty require work before the start of the 8-week session.  It is important to plan for advanced preparation for synchronous class sessions.  Your faculty member will share their expectations with the class.
2.    What are the expectations for engaging in the synchronous class session?  We want to have professional and collaborative learning experiences.  To support this, we expect you to join the synchronous schedules and actively participate.  During synchronous sessions, you should have your camera on [unless instructed otherwise] and microphone muted – unless you are speaking.  Be sure to look into your camera as this helps with ‘eye contact.’  Have other devices off to help remove distractions.  We want to foster topic exploration and debate so, be ready to disagree but not be disagreeable!
3.    Are there expectations for my learning space?  Yes, we recommend that you have a dedicated space for participating in the synchronous class sessions.  This should be comfortable, provide ample space for technology and class material, and limit distractions.  Be sure to use the common background that you are provided.  We recommend business casual dress.  
 

1.    Will class sessions be recorded? Generally, it is our practice to not record class sessions.  However, individual faculty may record at their discretion.  You will be informed by the faculty member of the norms associated with such recording.
2.    Will I be able to share class material?  Course material is for use in the class for which it is posted.  Sharing of course material with persons outside of the class is prohibited.  Distribution, posting, or other circulation or sale of course recorded lectures, sessions, or online material is prohibited.

1.    How will I be able to interact with faculty and others in the program?  There is a mix of engagement opportunities: one-on-one meetings with the faculty, team projects with others in your classes, research opportunities with faculty, semester 'chats' with classmates, and opportunities to participate in extra-curricular competitions.
2.    Will I have the opportunity to network with people outside of UWRF?  While it varies by class, you will have opportunities to interact with professional guest speakers, complete internships, and develop projects with regional organizations.