INTERNET: In an Internet course, traditional classroom instruction is replaced by instruction that takes place over the Internet, so access to a computer with an Internet connection is required. The instruction is typically asynchronous, which means that students and faculty do not need to log-in to the course at the same time. Faculty-student and student-student interactions take place in online formats. As in traditional classroom instruction, Internet courses incorporate textbooks and other hard copy materials. Tests often are administered in on-campus testing centers.

TELECOURSE: Telecourses are taught via videotape. In some areas, they are made available through local TV cable channels. For a modest fee, some colleges provide students a set of tapes that must be returned at the end of a semester. Some colleges stream telecourse video through the Internet, but a high-speed Internet connection is needed to access them this way. Check with the VCT Coordinator at the provider college for specifics on how you may access a telecourse.

INTERACTIVE VIDEO: Two-way video courses require students to attend class at specific times at a designated site, which is equipped to send and receive video. The classes are live, with the instructor at one location and students at one or more sites elsewhere. Live interaction takes place between students and the instructor and among students at various sites.

PRINT-BASED COURSES: Students primarily use a textbook and other self-study materials, but some print-based courses also may incorporate audio, videotape, or CD's, for supplementary activities.

HYBRID COURSES: Hybrid course use combinations of the above media. Internet-telecourse hybrids, in particular, are becoming increasingly common.