‘Virtual Classroom’ vs. ‘Online’ Terminology in Mosaic
When searching for Spring/Summer 2020 term classes in Mosaic, you may have noticed two similar terms being used in the mode of instruction: ‘Virtual Classroom’ and ‘Online’.
‘Virtual Classroom’ refers to any class that was originally scheduled as in-person, which has now moved to an online format.
‘Online’ refers to classes that were always intended to be online.
Please note: When a course is specified as ‘Online self-study’ with no dates and times, this means that is asynchronous (self-paced).
Since all Spring/Summer classes are being offered in an online format, the real difference between the two terms is how the class was originally planned to be offered.
6 thoughts on "‘Virtual Classroom’ vs. ‘Online’ Terminology in Mosaic"
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I still don’t understand the difference. My virtual class has times like mon 630-930 pm. Does this mean I have to log in during those times to see material ? Will materials not be available online if I don’t attend the virtual class?
Did you find out the answer to this?
We recommend that you connect with your course instructor to confirm how the course will be delivered! It may also be published in your course outline.
What’s the difference between ‘online’ and ‘online – self study’? My class is offered as all three options… virtual class room, online and online – self study.
Hi Susan,
If a course is specified as “online” or “virtual classroom” and is listed with dated and times, then it is a synchronous course meaning that there are specific virtual live components that you will be required to attend.
If a course is listed as “online – self study” with no dates and times, and instead just specifies ONLINE in the Date & time section, this means that the course is asynchronous (aka. self paced).
We would suggest that you reach out to the instructor, or look up a current course outline by googling the course name to verify.
If I were to register in the middle of a term for online Self Study would that mean I have less time to finish? Only being allowed to enrol before January 15 and March 15 means a lot of time wasted during the wait from June/August until January for my 5 month accounting courses