I'm considering enrolling in online courses at Grand Canyon University (GCU) and would love to hear from anyone who has taken them. Are they flexible and engaging, or is it tough to stay motivated?
Sure, I can provide some insights into what online classes are typically like at Grand Canyon University (GCU). You're asking good questions since the experience can vary widely by school, program, and even individual classes.
GCU's online courses are primarily asynchronous, which means you aren’t obligated to be online at a certain time. This is beneficial for those with busy schedules or inconsistent availability as it allows for flexibility. Materials like lectures, assignments, and readings are provided for you to work through at your own pace within the week's time frame.
The format of online classes often involves reading materials, watching video lectures, participating in discussion boards, completing quizzes and exams, and submitting assignments. Some courses may also require group projects.
The classes are designed to be highly interactive and engaging. GCU uses a platform called LoudCloud for its online courses, where you can interact with professors and peers, submit assignments, access grades, and more. This can really help to cultivate a sense of community in the class.
Staying motivated in an online class is often dependent on the individual student. Some find the flexibility and self-paced nature of online learning motivating because they have control over their schedule. Others may struggle with the lack of structure and direct, in-person interaction. Ensuring you organize your time well, set goals, and stay engaged in the course can help maintain motivation.
In terms of professor interaction, professors at GCU are usually good about responding to questions via email or on the course platform, though the response time can vary. The university also provides access to resources like online tutors and library resources which can be very beneficial.
Certainly, your experience is going to depend on many factors, including your learning style, the specific classes you take, and the faculty teaching those classes. But overall, many students find GCU's online programs to be a positive and flexible way to earn their degree.
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