Dec 11, 2024  
Catalog/Handbook 2020-21 
    
Catalog/Handbook 2020-21 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Online Education


Polk State offers online or distance education through hundreds of courses within a growing number of programs. Information about courses and programs can be found on the website: Online@PolkState. Students apply to the College and select the online campus option. A student success advisor dedicated to online students ensures proper registration for classes.

Online courses are delivered asynchronously through Canvas, a learning management system. Instructors post syllabi, pages, announcements, grades, and assignments, as well as offer additional instructional materials through Canvas. Instructors may also communicate using a variety of methods including email, Canvas messaging, discussions, grading feedback, quiz feedback, and synchronous options through web conferences. Generally, the course syllabus is available prior to the first day of the term, and students are advised to review this document carefully regarding the course requirements and instructions for taking exams.

Polk State College does not charge distance learning fees for courses; however, depending on the course, additional fees may be required, especially for exam proctoring. Many instructors require proctored examinations. A student may complete proctored examinations in the Teaching/Learning and Computing Center (TLCC) at the College’s campuses or centers for free. If a student is not located near one of the TLCC locations, the student can discuss the option to complete the examination at an additional cost using online proctoring software or at a proctoring center.

Security of personal information in the distance learning environment is protected through the learning management system. Users are required to log in to Canvas. Students utilize​ functions such as the assignment, quiz, and discussion tools. The learning management system also uses a grades tool for secure dissemination of student grade data.