Expectations for Online Learning

Expectations for Online Learning

In order to succeed in IBS’s online courses and certificate programs, and the M.A.B.S. online degree program, students should be computer literate and have access to the following technology:

  1. Regular access to a computer and a reliable internet connection.
  2. An email account which will be used to verify a student’s identity when logging into the Moodle learning platform.
  3. A modern web browser to access the Moodle platform (Chrome and Firefox are more reliable on PCs; the most recent version of Apple Safari on Macs) as well as to do online research. Mobile app versions of Moodle (such as for tablets or the iPad) generally have limited features; we recommend students access Moodle via a laptop or desktop computer.
  4. A PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat or Apple Preview.
  5. A word processing program such as Microsoft Office.
  6. The ability to listen to and watch audio and video files on your computer.
  7. Many online courses combine synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous modalities. Synchronous courses will require you to make time in your schedule to meet with your instructor and classmates similar to an on-site course. Synchronous meetings are usually conducted via Zoom or other video conferencing software.

Course Delivery Modalities and Definitions

In-Person Instruction – Courses are delivered face-to-face in a traditional classroom setting. Students and instructors meet in a physical classroom on the IBS campus, during a designated day/time. All students are expected to attend in-person.

Online Synchronous – This course includes required live meetings via Zoom, at a designated day/time, for lectures, discussions, and/or other instructor-led interaction. No asynchronous option available.

Concurrent Hybrid – This course is taught synchronously, during a designated day/time, with the option for students to participate either in person or via Zoom. No asynchronous option available.

Online Asynchronous – Delivery of instruction for this course is 100% online asynchronous, with weekly assignments such as tests, readings, essays, discussion boards, etc.

Students should always contact the instructor of record first with questions about course delivery modality.

IBS courses and programs are never self-paced. IBS’s pedagogical model assumes that students learn best in conversation with both their instructors and peers. Students therefore should expect weekly assignments and discussion regardless of course modality.

Synchronous courses will almost always be scheduled during Pacific Time. Students at a distance taking a course with real time meetings should plan their schedules accordingly.

Technical support

IBS utilizes the Moodle learning platform administered by the Graduate Theological Union. The GTU offers ample technical support for students and faculty. Once logged into your Moodle account, you will find both resource pages as well as a chat box to speak to a staff person for assistance. The chat feature is also included on the GTU library webpage.