Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Distance Learning and what are the advantages?
   
   Distance learning is designed for the student who needs or wants the flexibility of taking classes at their convenience and not be restricted by time or location. Students have the option of signing in for their class 24 hours a day, 7 days a week This type of learning benefits the busy adult whose schedule does not allow them to attend classes at a specific time every day.
   
   
2. Do students have to be available at a specific time to participate in the online courses?
   
   Except for the on-site requirements and two-way interactive collaborative training, it is the student’s responsibility to determine when is the best time to be on or off-line..
   
   In order to provide " hands-on" massage training and assessment, students will be required to participate in on site-residential intensive training for a total of five weeks during the program. Discounted lodging at local hotels will be available for this requirement.
   
   
3. How does distance education differ from traditional "classroom" education?
   
   Through synchronous and asynchronous learning modes, students interact with each other in a "live" classroom or through threaded discussions.
   
   
4. What does asynchronous mean?
   
   Asynchronous refers to the timing of the interaction between participants in an Online Educational course. This is what allows students to interact independently with the courseware.
   
   
5. What does synchronous mean?
   
   Synchronous communication occurs at the same time or "live." This learning mode simulates the traditional classroom by delivering the multimedia content in a two-way interactive format.
   
   
6. Do students have to be highly proficient in computer use to take an OCM ONLINE course?
   
   As a student, you need a good working knowledge of: your computer (what specifications for example, how much RAM, does it have a sound card, how to hook-up a headset and microphone,
   and such); the operating system (for example- Windows XP or 2000 or ME then how to move around in it and enable or disable features and such); the Internet Browser (for example Internet Explorer, Firefox, Opera) then how to move around in it and enable or disable features and such)
   
   You need to be able to enable and disable your pop-up blocker, adjust firewall setting (if you have one), navigate the Internet ( know what an address bar is, how to make a link, etc.) and all those other neat things the Internet encompasses.
   
   A clear understanding of a word processing program such as Microsoft Word (recommended) to compose and save your assignments.
   
   The ability to use an email program such as Microsoft Outlook (recommended) including how to attach documents, filtering, address book, etc.
   
   
7. What computer equipment/software is needed to take an OCM ONLINE course?
   
   The minimum requirements are:
   Computer
   Windows 2000 or XP, Vista operating system, MACs w/ os10.5 (call our IT Tech for more details)
   Internet Service
   Headset with microphone
   Text books from the Book List for the appropriate semester and classes you are taking.
   
   
8. Is distance learning right for me?
   
   Students who succeed in distance learning courses have the discipline and motivation to work independently. They have the maturity to set time aside on a weekly basis to "attend their class" as well as complete their assignments on a timely basis. If this describes you, then YES, distance learning is right for you.
   
   
9. Is Distance Education as effective as the traditional method?
   
   Courses are presented in logical order and students are given the opportunity to participate in discussions and assignments as they would in a traditional setting. Students are also able to access more information in a shorter amount of time with this advanced technology.