| General NVCC Distance Education Information  How is ELI distance learning different?
For students who prefer to study independently from home, all Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) campuses offer distance learning options, but there is also a separate distance learning unit - The Extended Learning Institute (ELI) - which also offers distance-learning courses.
Distance learning courses are 16 weeks with fixed start and end dates; however, ELI distance learning courses are self-paced and may be finished earlier than the end date. Many courses have multiple sections starting throughout each semester.
ELI distance learning courses are web-based (internet) or print-based. Exams are taken at any campus testing center or students outside the area may request exams be sent to a proctor.
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How does distance learning work at NVCC?
Distance learning courses are 16 weeks with fixed start and end dates. Normally, students do not need to be online at a certain time but regular submission of work is required. Students must submit minimum required assignments as specified by the instructor to avoid being administratively withdrawn from the course.
Some courses require students to meet assigned due dates but most courses offer flexibility as to when assignments can be submitted. Students should complete the online orientation prior to registering for or beginning their distance learning courses.
What is the cost of a distance-learning course?
The cost of enrolling in a course at NVCC, whether it is a distance learning or traditional course is $56.54 per credit for Virginia students and $202.47 per credit for out-of-state students. Check the latest Schedule of Classes for the most current detailed information.
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If I can't find the course I need at NVCC, what are my other distance learning options?
NVCC offers many distance learning course options, both campus-based and at the Extended Learning Institute (ELI). However, if you cannot find exactly what you need, we encourage you to look at these other possibilities:
VCCS Online - The Virginia Community College System has twenty-three community colleges, many of them offer distance learning options.
Electronic Campus of Virginia - The Electronic Campus of Virginia is a cooperative instructional technology initiative among the state's public and private colleges and universities.
SREB Electronic Campus - The SREB Electronic Campus of the Southern Regional Education Board is an “electronic marketplace” for courses, programs and services. All courses and programs are offered by accredited colleges and universities in the SREB states
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Registration Information How do I register?
You must first apply to the college to sign up for NVCC distance learning courses. You may apply online.
Once you are admitted to the college, there are several ways to register for a distance learning course. The preferred method is online via NovaConnect. You may also use the college-wide telephone registration system at (703) 323-3770 [Prince William County - (703) 330-3770], or you can call the Extended Learning Institute (ELI) at (703) 323-3368. To register for ELI distance learning courses, another option is to mail or fax the Registration and Tuition Worksheet directly to ELI, provided you are using a credit card for payment.
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When can I register?
Times are posted on the NVCC website. Registration for most NVCC distance learning courses have closing dates. Because additional ELI distance learning course sections open throughout the traditional semester, registration for most ELI distance learning courses continue throughout the semester. When course capacity limits are reached, ELI sections are closed to further registration. For more information see the registration information on the Distance Learning website.
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Where do I find the index number for an ELI course?
Every NVCC distance learning course has a specific index number associated with it. You will need this index number to register for a specific course section. Here is a listing of current index numbers for ELI course sections.
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Where can I find distance learning courses at NVCC?
NVCC distance learning courses are listed in the paper Schedule of Classes. Distance learning course offerings can be found listed under each campus and in the last section of the printed schedule of classes, under the Extended Learning Institute. Course listings are also available online on the Distance Learning website and in NovaConnect - Class Search; Advanced search option; check the Open Only box; select Credit as the Course Career and select the Location as VIRTUAL - Extended Learning Institute; click Search.
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Where can I locate additional distance learning course sections that start later in the semester?
Distance learning sections that start later in the semester are offered through the Extended Learning Institutue (ELI). There are four ELI distance learning registration sessions for Spring and Fall semesters and three ELI distance learning registration sessions for Summer semester.
Not all of ELI's additional sections are listed in the printed Schedule of Classes. If available, sections will be posted at the top of the main page on the Distance Learning website. Additional sections offered are based on what courses reach their enrollment limits in the first registration session. They are also listed in NovaConnect - Class Search; Advanced search option; check the Open Only box; select Credit as the Course Career and select the Location as VIRTUAL - Extended Learning Institute; click Search.
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When does a course begin?
Both campus-based distance learning courses and ELI distance learning courses start at the beginning of each semester. However, if you choose an ELI distance learning course, the course start date may not be at the beginning of the semester. Additional ELI distance learning course sections open periodically throughout the semester. Therefore, it is very important to check the Start Date on the Quick Start Syllabus you receive in the mail. You still have 16 weeks to complete the assignments and exams.
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How do I start the course once I am registered?
Students will receive course information and enrollment confirmation in the mail. If you have not received confirmation by 7 - 10 days after the course is scheduled to begin, call Registration at (703) 323-3368. Go to http://eli.nvcc.edu/courses.htm, find the course and read the syllabus for information on how to get started, required course materials, how to contact instructor, etc.
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How do I drop my distance learning course and receive a refund?
You may drop a course and receive a refund by the Last Refund Date. Drop online with NovaConnect Web. Drop by phone by calling (703) 323-3770 or (703) 330-3770 Prince William County residents.
If you do not have internet or telephone access and want to drop an ELI distance learning course, you may send a written request to the ELI Distance Learning Registration office at 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale VA 22003 or by fax to (703) 323-3392. All written requests must be received in the ELI Distance Learning Office on or before the Last Refund date, otherwise you are not eligible for a refund.
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How do I withdraw from my distance learning course without penalty?
You may withdraw from a course without grade penalty by the Last Date for Withdrawal . Drop online with NovaConnect Web. DO NOT withdraw online if you are past your Last Date for Withdrawal. The system will assign an “F”. Students past their Last Date for Withdrawal must send a written withdrawal request to their instructor.
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Why had I been dropped/withdrawn from my distance learning course?
Students who do not pay tuition are dropped from their courses for non-payment. If you have questions concerning a drop for non-payment, you may contact the ELI Distance Learning Registration office at (703) 323-3368.
Students enrolled in ELI distance learning courses who do not submit the minimum required assignments as specified by the instructor are administratively withdrawn with a grade of “W” with no refund at the Last Withdrawal Date. If you have questions concerning an administrative withdrawal, please contact your instructor.
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Why do I still have "W" grade if my instructor reinstated me in my ELI distance learning course?
Reinstatement in an ELI distance learning course is by special permission of the instructor only. When instructors reinstate you in an ELI distance learning course, they will mail a letter to you giving you permission to complete course assignments and take exams. You will need to take it with you to the testing center each time you take an exam.
When all assignments and exams are completed, the W grade is changed to the final grade assigned by the instructor.
Top Course Information What is the cost of course materials?
The cost of course materials varies with each course. Almost all distance learning courses require a textbook as a minimum. Other courses may require workbooks, CDs, audiotapes, videotape programs, course guides, or science lab supplies. If you have a specific course in mind, contact any one of the campus bookstores.
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Where can I get course materials
Course materials for campus-based distance learning courses can be purchased in-person at the campus bookstore. Materials for ELI distance learning courses are found in the ELI Distance Learning Center section of NVCC campus bookstores located in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas and Woodbridge. It is always best to call prior to making the trip to the campus. Another option is to purchase online from MBS Books or by calling (888) 744-7839 (orders are processed through the NVCC Alexandria campus bookstore).
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If I go to the bookstore to buy my course materials and find that something isn't available, what should I do?
If you are taking an ELI distance learning course, be sure you specify that you are taking an ELI course and make sure you look in the ELI section of the bookstore. You can also call (888) 744-7839 to order by mail. For some online courses, you can order online. If you need additional assistance, call the ELI hotline, (707) 323-3347.
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Where can I get the required videos for my course?
Telecourses are broadcast on cable TV in northern Virginia (except through Direct TV). TV schedule and channel information are available. Telecourses are also broadcast online via streaming video and can be watched in your home, but it requires a broadband connection and Windows Media Player 8 or higher. Some telecourses may be rented online from RMI Media or by calling (800) 745-5480.
Students may also view telecourse videos on any campus computer via streaming NVCC video-on-demand. Six telecourses are also available via video-on-demand from Learner.org . They include American Cinema, Art in the Western World, Destinos, French in Action, Growing Old in a New Age, and Seasons of Life. A broadband connection recommended.
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What are the different types of distance learning?
Courses are designated as online or non-online courses. The non-online courses include those that use video programs, either televised or purchased; voice mail; CD-ROM; or any other non-Internet technology.
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How do I submit the assignments for my course?
Students registered for online distance learning courses should consult the course website for instructions on how to submit their assignments. Students registered for print-based courses should consult the Course Guide for instructions on how to submit their assignments; Course Guides can be obtained online or students may purchase through the mail by calling (888) 744-7839 (orders are processed through the NVCC Alexandria campus bookstore).
Written assignments for ELI distance learniang courses are mailed to the ELI Distance Learning Center, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale VA 22003 or can be dropped off in-person at 8000 Forbes Place, Springfield VA 22151. An assignment drop off box is available outside the entrance to the ELI Distance Learning office at 8000 Forbes Place in Springfield for assignments dropped off after hours
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Can I drop off assignments to my instructor at their campus office?
Refer to your course syllabus for specific instructions on how to submit assignments. For ELI distance learning courses, unless otherwise specified by your instructor, students should only drop off assignments at the ELI Distance Learning Center at 8000 Forbes Place, Springfield VA 22151 and not at the instructor's campus office.
An assignment drop off box is available outside the entrance to the ELI Distance Learning office at 8000 Forbes Place in Springfield for ELI distance learning course assignments dropped off after hours
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Is distance learning just an easy way to take a course?
No. The content is the same, no matter how you decide to take the course, and although your professor for distance learning courses is adapting the methods for teaching at a distance, you are expected to learn the same amount of material. Many students have expressed surprise that the distance course is actually harder because it requires so much self-discipline.
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 Will I interact with other students in the class?
In distance learning courses, interaction with other students is usually limited to online discussion forums in which messages are posted to the course website. A few courses require class meetings—the dates and times are published in the printed and online Schedule of Classes for each semester.
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Do I ever have to go to campus?
You will need to go to your campus testing center to take tests for campus-based courses. For ELI distance courses, you can take your course exams at any of the NVCC campus testing centers.
You will also need to go to the campus testing centers if you are planning to complete a certificate or degree at NVCC or are planning to take an English or math course. If you live outside the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, you can request to have a proctor outside NVCC to administer your exams. Refer to ELI Policies and Procedures for all the details. In a few specialized courses, an on-campus lab is required.
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Can I work at my own pace?
Yes, but keep in mind that each course has specific amounts of work that you must complete before the Last Withdrawal Date. One of the benefits of taking a distance learning course is the ability to study independently.
Some distance learning courses do not require fixed assignment due dates. However, research shows that students are most successful with independent study when they start their course work immediately and make steady progress. To help you accomplish this, most distance learningcourses offer a course progress schedule that you can follow.
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Check with the individual instructor and your course information in the course syllabus for details. Students enrolled in ELI distance learning courses can accelerate the course assignments and schedule. Final grades are assigned as students finish the course. It is not easy to complete the course sooner than 16 weeks. Plan to schedule 2-3 hours of study per credit hour. For example, for a 3-credit course, plan to study approximately 6-9 hours per week.
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What if I need more time to finish my ELI distance learning course ?
For ELI distance learning courses ONLY, if you have successfully completed 50% of the course work as specified by your instructor (in the syllabus or noted on the course website) you may request an extension in writing from your instructor. An "incomplete" or "I" grade is assigned and will change to your final grade when all assignments and exams have been completed. The length of the extension is determined by the instructor but can be up to 16 weeks.
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Do distance-learning courses and on-campus courses cover the same material?
Generally, the instructional content of distance learning courses is similar to what you study in a course on campus, but the distance learning course may require a different textbook and types of assignments and exams. If you have a specific course in mind, contact the ELI Hotline at (703) 323-3347 for information about the textbook, types of assignments, and exams.
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Can I transfer courses from other colleges to NVCC?
Course credits transfer only from colleges and universities that are accredited by the Commission on Colleges or the Commission on Higher Education of the regional accreditation associations or conform to the requirements published in the Transfer of Credit Practices of Designated Educational Institutions by the American Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers. If you have a specific course in mind, contact the ELI counselor at (703) 323-3712.
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Will my NVCC distance learning courses transfer?
NVCC is an accredited institution of higher learning. Because distance learning courses are part of NVCC, they should transfer to any institution that accepts NVCC credits. However, it is always a good idea to check with the institution.
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How can an ELI distance learning course be closed?
ELI distance learning courses do have limits as to the number of students that may register. Once the maximum number of students have been registered, the course is closed to additional students. Some ELI distance learning courses have published closing dates due to required meetings, scheduled submission of assignments, and other course objectives that require the students to start the course at the same time.
There are several reasons for course limits - state and college policies limit the number of credit hours faculty can teach; most faculty teach full-time on campus in addition to teaching their ELI distance learning courses and these combined credit hours make up a full teaching load; availability of funds to pay for the credit hours faculty can teach.
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What is my start date?
Your Start Date is the official start date for the course and all other dates are based on it. For ELI distance learning courses, this date does not necessarily correspond to campus enrollment dates.
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What are the critical dates for my course?
Your critical enrollment dates for your distance learning course are the Start Date, Last Refund Date, Last Date for Withdrawal, and End of Enrollment. For ELI distance learning courses, these dates are listed on the front of the Quick-Start syllabus mailed to you.
Your Start Date is the official start date for the course and all other dates are based on it; this date does not necessarily correspond to campus enrollment dates.
The Last Refund Date is the last day you can drop the course and receive a refund of your tuition; it is also the last date you can drop a course and add another course without paying additional tuition.
The Last Date for Withdrawal is the last date you can withdraw from the course without grade penalty; a grade of W is assigned; students who do not submit the minimum required assignments as specified by the instructor will be administratively withdrawn with no refund.
The End of Enrollment Date is the last day of the course; all assignments and exams should be completed by this date .
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Can I submit assignments and take exams on my End of Enrollment date for my ELI distance learning course?
If the testing center of your choice is open, you make take exams on your End-of-Enrollment Date. However, you should not take more than one exam per day. Mailed assignments postmarked by the End-of-Enrollment Date will be accepted. Assignments dropped in the ELI Distance Learning Center drop box after hours are stamped with the previous day's date (i.e. date the assignment was dropped off). Assignments dropped in the drop box over the weekend are stamped with Friday's date.
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Where can I find my final course grade?
If your instructor has assigned a final grade, you can find out your grade by calling
(703) 323-3770, option 2-Grades or by logging into NovaConnect.
If your instructor has not assigned a final grade, your grade will not be posted on NovaConnect. Contact the instructor to check the status of your final grade. If you still require help locating your grade, contact the ELI Distance Learning Hotline at (703) 323-3347 or (800) 627-5443.
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Instructor Information Will I ever meet my instructor?
You can contact your instructor to make an appointment. Course syllabi provide your course instructor's office hours and contact information through email, voice mail, or telephone.
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How do I contact my instructor?
Students can contact their instructors by email, by telephone, or voicemail. Students can make an appointment to meet face-to-face with the instructor. Some instructors have posted campus and ELI office hours. Contact information is provided in the course syllabus or on the course website.
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Is there someone to help me?
Your instructor is your primary support while taking a distance learning course. In addition, the ELI distance learning counselor and other staff are available to assist you if you have a question, problem, or concern related to your studies. Contact an ELI distance learning student service counselor for answers to questions about financial aid, career planning, and tutors.
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Testing Information Do online courses have exams?
Yes, all courses have proctored exams. Students in most online courses take online exams in the campus testing centers. If you live outside the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, you can request to have a proctor outside NVCC to administer your exams. Refer to ELI Policies and Procedures for all the details.
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Do I have to take the exams at the campus through which the distance learning course is offered?
Yes, if the distance learning course is campus-based. However, if the distance learning course is an ELI course, then no, you may take exams for ELI Distance Learning courses at any campus testing center. NVCC has campus testing centers in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas and Woodbridge.
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Where is the ELI Distance Learning testing center?
There is no ELI Distance Learning testing center. No testing services are provided at the ELI Distance Learning facility. All exams are taken at any campus testing center or arranged through a test proctor. NVCC has campus testing centers in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas and Woodbridge.
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How do I take exams for my ELI distance learning course?
Exams for ELI distance learning courses are taken at any campus testing center. NVCC has campus testing centers in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas and Woodbridge. You must have the appropriate exam pass for the course and photo ID. Print the exam pass out PRIOR to going to the testing center. They can be obtained at http://eli.nvcc.edu/courses.htm and clicking on the appropriate course.
Exams are not scheduled on a certain day. Just go to the testing center when you are ready to take the exam. You do not need an appointment, but call the testing center of choice to verify hours before going. You must start the exam 90 minutes prior to the testing center closing. All exams are collected 15 minutes prior to closing (NO EXCEPTIONS!)
Students outside the area may request a proctor by submitting a Proctor Request Form and letter from the proctor on organization letterhead.
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If I live outside the area, how do I take my exams?
If you live outside of the metropolitan DC area and cannot travel to a campus testing center, you may request to have your exams proctored.
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Who is eligible to proctor my ELI distance course exams?
The ELI Distance Learning unit requires that a proctor be a staff member at a testing center at a college or university. Proctors cannot be a family member, employer, or someone with whom the student works. Incarcerated students should suggest an educational officer or counselor as their proctor. Disabled and other students who have extenuating circumstances which prevent them from going to a campus should suggest an alternative proctor, preferably an educator.
Request a proctor by completing and submitting a Proctor Request Form, along with your Proctor's statement on organization letterhead, and the course exam passes, available at http://eli.nvcc.edu/courses.htm .
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Technology Information How do I know which technology I will be using?
The ELI section of the Schedule of Classes uses icons to designate the type of technology used in each course. By going to the Courses section of the ELI web site you can read in depth about each course.
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I have a computer. What else will I need?
If you are taking an online course, prior experience using an Internet connection and a browser is required. Because most communication between faculty and students occurs by email, we recommend the following:
- reliable access to email
- reliable access to the Internet (with a recent version of Netscape or Internet Explorer)
- MS Office 97 or later (mainly needed for word-processing in order to complete assignments.)
- access to software such as Adobe Reader, RealPlayer, etc.
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Can I use any kind of browsers?
You must use a standard Web browser such as Netscape Navigator (version 4.8 or later) or Microsoft Internet Explorer (version 5.5 or later). You must enable cookies and Java to access most courses. America Online (AOL) software is not standard; AOL users should install a standard browser to use after connecting with AOL.
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What if my course isn't listed in Blackboard?
Prior to the beginning of the semester, some course websites are under revision so students will not be able to access their Blackboard course right away. Not all online courses use Blackboard; check the ELI Distance Learning website for details on accessing your ELI distance learning course website. If your course uses Blackboard and the course is not listed by the Start Date listed on your course confirmation, contact the ELI Distance Learning Hotline at (703) 323-3347 or (800) 627-5443.
If your course is not an online course; obtain the Course Guide at http://eli.nvcc.edu/courses.htm for your course information.
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