Frequently Asked Questions for FAU Online Classes

Online students regularly log onto a virtual portal where they can access course materials; view their syllabus and grades; monitor their progress on lessons; and contact professors, classmates, and support services. Standard learning activities related to online learning include posting on discussion boards, completing group or individual projects, taking quizzes, and writing papers. Students have the flexibility of choosing when and where work is completed but are required to submit assignments by the designated deadlines.

Online learning is student-centered learning. The instructor serves as your guide and facilitator, but your level of motivation will determine your academic success. Online learning requires you to be disciplined, proactive, and prepared to take advantage of opportunities for engagement with instructors and other students. If you feel that the structure of face-to-face learning is crucial to your academic success, online courses may not be for you.

Yes. Many students at FAU take a mixture of online, blended, and on-campus face-to-face courses based on availability and personal schedules.

The time you spend in online classes will vary. Class formats will differ. Most online learners spend about 10-20 hours a week on coursework.

Many online classes require video conference calls and online chats. Additionally, online students should anticipate weekly due dates for assignments that will also require them to participate in the online course throughout the week.

Online classes are delivered using a learning management system called Canvas. Students log into Canvas and can select their course sites. Once a student is in their course site, they can access lectures, PowerPoints, emails, assignments, readings, documents, videos, and discussion boards.

Your success as an online student is truly dependent on your self-discipline. Because students are not required to be in class at a specific time, you must be motivated to get your work done on your own. If you have a family or you are working while taking online classes, setting an established schedule is paramount.

If at any time you don’t understand an assignment, it is imperative that you ask questions for clarification so you don’t fall behind. Our instructors make themselves available to students, so you can reach out via emails, discussion boards, and during virtual office hours.

Online courses are graded like classroom courses. Critical thinking is required. Students leave the course with an understanding of the subject matter and the ability to apply their knowledge in their respective professions. Typical assignments include reading the course text and additional materials, active participation in online discussions, writing papers and quizzes or tests.

Our students mostly take virtually monitored exams online, where a proctor watches via webcam or where computer software detects cheating by checking the test-takers’ screens. Tests may be timed and do not typically allow for open-book responses. Learn more about FAU’s Code of Academic Integrity .

In rare cases, an online course may require proctored exams. If they do, online students may need to visit a local testing site with an on-site proctor.

Our academic year is composed of three 12-week semesters (fall, spring, and summer). We admit new students each term. Visit our Academic Calendar for additional details.

Online courses usually require weekly logins and assignment submissions. If students are unable to complete these participation requirements, they are encouraged to contact their professor to discuss the next steps.

To be successful in online learning environments, students need to know how to:

• Send and receive email messages
• Use a mouse and keyboard to select and start programs as well as to enter information
• Create and submit files in commonly used word processing program formats such as Microsoft Office
• Download and install “plug-in” software
• Connect to the Internet and use a web browser to find information
• Use presentation, graphics, and spreadsheet programs
• Create and manage folders on a computer
• Manage security settings through an Internet browser software and firewall

The online courses at FAU are primarily web-based. No special software is required in order to access or complete the courses.  However, you will need a current browser (Firefox, Chrome, Edge) and possibly a few plug-ins. Log in and take a look at the Minimum Standards of Technical Equipment Guide  provided by online professors. Please keep in mind that certain colleges may have additional software requirements based on major.

The library places a high priority on support for online students. Below are great resources that will assist you in navigating the library from where you are.

• General Library Information for Online Students
• Useful tutorials to assist you as an Online Owl
• Distance Learning Libguide

Go mobile with library app ! Search the catalog and our eResources.

Canvas Tier 1 support is available 24/7, 365 days a year. There are multiple ways to get support for Canvas-related issues or questions. Call the toll-free number 855-691-7827 or call the FAU Help Desk at 561-297-3999.

If you are logged into Canvas, click on the Help icon in the bottom left corner, under the global menu. You will be able to chat with a Canvas representative by clicking on “Chat with Canvas Support” or you can choose to “Report a Problem,” which will allow you to submit a ticket to Canvas Support.

You can also search the Canvas guides or visit the Canvas Community and ask a question.