Distance learning (DL) is the term used at UAH to describe an alternative way of students and instructors interacting with each other. "Distance learning" is just a different way of delivering the course content; the content, assignments, and lectures are the same for both, they are scheduled at the same time and place, and students registered either way are entitled to attend lectures. A "regular" course is where students sit in a classroom while a professor in the classroom conducts lectures or discussions. A distance learning course still has an instructor, but students do not attend class. Instructors still conduct lectures, but those lectures are recorded for later viewing, usually streamed over the Internet. Most of our courses are delivered as combined regular-DL sections - some students attend the class that's being recorded, while DL students receive those same lectures streamed.
The distance learning program is administered through the Distance Learning Office.
If the class is listed on the Distance Learning Office's site as a distance learning (DL) course, then you may be able to register as a distance learning student, so keep reading. The schedule of classes also shows a "D" in the "section type" column.
Most DL classes are offered in one of two ways: as a regular undergraduate/graduate section, and as a distance learning (DL) course. They have different section numbers, but have the same instructor and content.
If you are aren't eligible for a DL course, then you register just as you would for any other course. If the regular sections are listed as CLOSED, you may still register, but you'll be placed on a waiting list. If you are already on the waiting list, you must wait for a place in the regular section. A few places may open up, but they are unpredictable.
If you are eligible, you may register for the regular sections through Charger Central or for the Distance Learning sections (usually sections numbered 10 or above) through the Distance Learning Office (DL). The DL cost is a bit more than regular enrollment; however, you get the privilege of checking out videotapes or CD's of the lectures or getting your lectures delivered over Web video and you also may have more flexible ways of submitting your work to your instructor. If you are already enrolled in the regular section, you may switch to the DL section by (a) dropping the regular section course through the registrar's office and then (b) adding the distance learning section through the DL office (see below). You gain the DL benefits described below.
Don't worry if the DL sections are marked as "CLOSED". This is only to ensure you register through the DL office. Whether closed or not, you may still enroll through the DL office, if you otherwise qualify for the course.
If you are an undergraduate student, you may still enroll in a DL section; however, be warned that you will be charged tuition for a GRADUATE course (usually about 40% more than undergraduate tuition).
When you register this way, you get regular CS department credit, and can still attend class. The only differences are:
The registration process is a little different. Get a faxed form by calling (256) 824-6976 and give them your fax number, or email your fax number to dl@ise.uah.edu. Make sure you tell them the semester, course number and instructor's name. They will fax or send you a form.
Note: There is a place on the form to check whether you will attend class, pickup tapes, or receive Web delivery -- you are still welcome to attend class either way, so select either "pickup tapes" or Web delivery in case you have to miss a class; then you can still see what you missed.
If you are residing in the Huntsville area during the time a course is offered, you are categorized as a local DL student. You are expected to attend in-class examinations at the time scheduled for other students. If that is not possible, contact the instructor for alternate arrangements.
If you are residing outside of the Huntsville area during the time a course is offered, you are categorized as an off-campus DL student. Off-campus students must call the DL office (256) 824-6976 to schedule proctoring of their exams on an individual basis.