Academic Catalog

Distance Learning

Distance learning technology brings together students and instructors who are not physically located in the same location. Midlands Technical College offers multiple approaches to distance learning. For any mode of instruction that occurs at a distance, it is expected that students have reliable high-speed internet access. All distance learning courses are conducted through the college’s learning management system, D2L Brightspace.

One type of distance learning course is an online course. Online courses are asynchronous, which means they do not meet at set days and times throughout the week. However, students are expected to work independently, and assignments are due on specific dates throughout the semester.

Another type of distance learning course is a hybrid course. Hybrid courses have a mix of on-ground and online components. Typically hybrid classes replace some in-class instruction with online activities.

The final type of distance learning course is a virtual course. Virtual courses meet synchronously online via web conferencing software, which means they meet at set days and times during the week. 

All students are required to complete a readiness course, titled Virtual Backpack: Starting Your Online Journey, prior to registering for their first online or virtual course. Each MTC student is automatically registered for this course in D2L Brightspace upon being admitted to the college, and the short Virtual Backpack course can be completed anytime.

For questions related to distance learning courses, please contact the Center for Teaching Excellence at CTE@midlandstech.edu.