How are UC Riverside's online courses?

Hi! I'm exploring my college options and was curious about UC Riverside's online courses.

Does anyone have experience with them? Are they well-organized and engaging? I'm considering taking a couple of online classes to balance my schedule and would like to know if they’re a good choice.

Any details about what the workload is like or the support from professors would be appreciated. Thanks!

UC Riverside's transition to offering online courses has been quite a steady process, with many experiencing positive results. The administration has put much effort into creating a robust and engaging online platform, with the transition aiming to mimic in-person teaching as closely as possible.

The classes themselves generally follow an asynchronous learning pattern, meaning that while there are scheduled times for lectures, they are often recorded and can be watched at your convenience. This can be really beneficial in maintaining a balanced schedule, as you have more flexibility in structuring your study time.

When it comes to organization, many courses utilize major learning management systems such as Canvas for coursework, discussions, and quizzes. Online learning platforms typically pride themselves on accessibility and user-friendly interfaces, so you should not face too much difficulty navigating through your courses.

One potential challenge for you could be the independent nature of online learning. You might often see a significant commitment and self-discipline required, especially considering the asynchronous format of the courses. For instance, the workload usually involves staying on top of video lectures and doing a good bit of reading independently.

Interaction with professors and TAs in this format often takes place through email or discussion boards. Some professors also have virtual office hours where you can clarify doubts or discuss course topics. Feedback from students suggests that while the experience isn't quite the same as the immediate feedback possible in person, prompt responses are usually given. That being said, you might need to be more proactive in seeking help or clarifications.

Finally, remember that online learning can be quite a different experience, so it's essential to consider your learning style. Some thrive in this type of environment, while others find it challenging.

Regardless, UC Riverside's consistent efforts to offer quality and engaging online education bode well for those considering taking some classes in this format.