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Online Learning FAQs

Thinking about taking an online class? This guide will help you decide if online learning is right for you and explain how CCC online courses work.

Is Online Learning Right for You?

Online learning can be a great option, but it works best if you are prepared.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you have access to a computer and the internet?
  • Can you learn without face-to-face classroom meetings?
  • Can you set aside 6 – 10 hours each week for coursework?
  • Are you motivated and self-disciplined?
  • Do you manage deadlines well?
  • Are you comfortable communicating in writing?
  • Do you like setting your own study schedule?
  • Do you take responsibility for your education?
  • Can you contact your instructor when you need help?
  • Are you comfortable using email and basic technology?
  • Does your work or family schedule make daytime classes difficult?

Your Results

Count how many times you answered “Yes.”

  • 9 – 12 Yes answers
    Online learning is a great fit for you.
  • 5 – 8 Yes answers
    Online learning may work for you. You may need to build strong study habits.
  • 0 – 4 Yes answers
    Online learning may be challenging. Staying motivated and managing technology may be difficult.

Where Do You Get Help?

CCC offers strong support for online students through Central Online.

Central Online Helpdesk

You can contact the helpdesk online or by phone.

When you contact support, be ready to share:

  • Your first and last name
  • Your CCC username
  • Your 7-digit student ID number
  • The last four digits of your Social Security number
  • The course you are taking
  • A detailed description of the issue
  • A phone number and alternate email

The electronic helpdesk offers:

  • Password change and reset tools
  • A student helpdesk form to report problems
  • A copy of class request form
  • Residence hall helpdesk access
  • FAQ documents and Office 365 installation guides

Direct: 308-398-7999

Toll Free: 800-CCC-0780 (option #7)

Fall and Spring Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Helpdesk staff provide technical support only. For course questions, contact your instructor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Online courses follow the same start and end dates as on-campus classes.

  • Some instructors may require work to be submitted before the end date.
  • This allows time for grading and feedback.

Online courses are accessed through the internet.

  • You will receive a username and password after you register.
  • You will access courses through the WebCentral Portal.
  • CCC uses Canvas for online courses.
  • You do not need to install Canvas on your computer.

All CCC courses use Canvas in some way.

  • Some courses only use Canvas for grades, syllabi and announcements.
  • Others include quizzes, assignments and discussions.

If you are unsure which format is right for you, contact your advisor or the registrar’s office.

Course Delivery Options

CCC offers several course formats:

  • Online Instructor-Paced
    You follow set deadlines.
  • Online Self-Paced
    You work at your own pace and finish by the end of the term.
  • Blended Courses
    Most work is online, but some in-person meetings or proctored tests are required.
  • On-Campus Lecture Courses
    Traditional classes with online tools in Canvas.

Most online courses do not require campus visits.

  • Blended courses may require in-person labs or exams.
  • These may take place at a campus or learning center.

Online courses are organized by topics or weekly units.

You may be asked to:

  • Read course materials
  • Participate in discussion boards
  • Upload assignments
  • Take quizzes or exams
  • Watch instructional videos

Online vs. Face-to-Face Courses

Online courses meet the same academic standards as in-person classes.

  • Course content is similar or identical.
  • Transcripts do not show how the course was delivered.

Online learning requires extra self-discipline since you manage your own schedule.

Assignment Deadlines

Deadlines are important.

  • If something prevents you from meeting a deadline, contact your instructor.
  • Instructors may allow extra time, but this is their decision.

For best performance, products should be used on the current or previous major releases of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Because these products are built using web standards, they run on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or any other device with a modern web browser.

These products require an operating system that can run the latest compatible web browsers. Your computer operating system should be kept up to date with the latest recommended security updates and upgrades.

Online courses are asynchronous.

  • You do not need to log in at a specific time each day.
  • You should log in daily to check announcements.
  • Participation several times per week is required.

  • Create a weekly study schedule.
  • Write down all due dates.
  • Submit work early when possible.
  • Allow time to fix technical issues before deadlines.

Many online courses use the same textbooks as in-person classes.

To find your textbooks:

  • Log in to WebCentral
  • Select My Services
  • Click Search for Classes/Register
  • View your class schedule
  • Select a course to see textbook details

Online students have full access to CCC Library resources.

  • Library links appear at the top of your course page in Canvas.

Orientation for Online Learning

Free Canvas training workshops are available.

You will learn how to:

  • Access course materials
  • Submit assignments
  • Take quizzes and tests
  • Communicate with classmates and instructors

You may attend in person or online.

We’re excited to support you in your online learning journey. With the right tools and habits, you can succeed in CCC’s online courses!

Contact Us

For information about online degrees, diplomas, certificates and courses, Email Central Online or call us at 308-398-7901.