What is an online class?

All the lessons and assignments you complete in an online or a remote class are done online. In other words, you study and submit your work without coming to a class on campus. For that, you need to have access to a computer and the Internet to be able to take these online classes, and this includes all the ESL classes that are offered and labeled as "Online," "Synchronous Live Online (Remote)," or "Hybrid" on the WebAdvisor.

At the college, all the online classes are taught through a CMS, course management system, called Canvas - In fact, this is a Canvas page here, so your online class will look similar to this!

You also need to know how to use an email account and have basic Word processing skills.

To learn more about how to learn online at SWC, visit the Online Learning website.

Is an online class for me?

If you don't have time to go to a classroom or if you need flexible study hours, online classes are for you! To be successful in an online class, you need to be self-disciplined and motivated, and should have basic computer and the Internet skills.

If you don't have access to the Internet, the college offers a Drive-Up WiFi Zone.

It is available for students who do not have access to the internet, and is located right by the Campus Police Building (Parking Lot D).
A Southwestern College ID on the student's car dashboard is needed for verification OR a printed copy of the student's registration statement or class schedule.
The WiFi Zone is available everyday from 7:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Do all ESL classes have an online section as an option?

As the pandemic mode continues, most of the ESL classes still meet online.

In our typical semester, most classes meet on ground (on campus, in a classroom), and certain classes are offered online. You can identify each class's mode of instruction via WebAdvisor (check the "Location" column). There are four different modes of instruction offered for ESL classes (Ref. SWC Course Modalities):

Face-to-Face/On-ground/In-Person - A traditional instruction mode where we meet in a classroom for the scheduled hours
Traditional Online - A type of online class with NO required Zoom meetings
- Learning is not live and class work is performed and submitted online through Canvas for weekly deadlines.
(Synchronous) Live Online - Similar to an online class as there is no on-ground meeting; instead, a live online class will either:
- meet virtually for all scheduled class hours, OR
- meet virtually for some of the scheduled class hours.
  - A Zoom meeting is just like a class meeting on campus, where you work with your classmates and instructor.
  - Typically, part of assignments and tasks are worked on at a Zoom class meeting, so you can complete them later online.
- You may also be required the use of a webcam (online camera) for class participation and/or taking exams in Zoom.
  - Check with your instructor.
Hybrid
- Students will meet on campus for the scheduled time, and complete additional independent work online.

Need Assistance?

Contact our ESL Student Advocate Specialist!

Click to return to "Welcome to ESL Program!" page.