Distance learning offers flexibility and variety for students. Courses happen in Blackboard, where you will complete coursework and connect with classmates.
Distance Education for Students is designed to work with students taking hybrid, synchronous and/or asynchronous classes. The Technology Learning Center offers strategic support in the technologies used in classes such as these.
Students are encouraged to take part in the workshops and videos provided to support the various technologies embraced at Grand Rapids Community College. Access to Blackboard resources, including Zoom meeting rooms, are provided.
GRCC Technology workshops dates and times can be accessed on the GRCC Technology Onboarding page.
Students are encouraged to seek tutoring with a subject-specific tutorial lab for support. Access to Blackboard resources, including Zoom meeting rooms, are provided by each subject-specific tutorial lab. You are also automatically enrolled in the subject-specific tutorial lab Blackboard Organization.
Types of Distance Education
Choose the distance learning experience that best fits your needs.
Online Learning
Is this class online, in person or both?
- Learning is completely online. No need to come to campus, but you will have deadlines and assignments to complete.
When and where will these classes meet?
- No specific meeting time.
- Check syllabus for due dates and course requirements.
Is this course format right for me?
- You are organized and can work independently.
- You like flexibility to study when it fits your schedule.
Virtual Learning
Is this class online, in person or both?
- Live online classes at specific times using video streaming (e.g., Google Meets or Zoom).
When and where will these classes meet?
- Online meeting dates and times will be listed on the class schedule.
Is this course format right for me?
- You like interacting with others but do not want to come to campus.
- You prefer set schedules for classes.
Hybrid Learning
Is this class online, in person or both?
- Mix of online work you can complete independently and some in-person meetings with your instructor and classmates.
When and where will these classes meet?
- In-person meeting days, times and location will be listed on the class schedule.
Is this course format right for me?
You miss some face-to-face interaction but still want flexibility.
In-Person/Virtual Learning
Is this class online, in person or both?
- Both! You will have some parts in a real classroom with your instructor and classmates, and some parts online at specific times
When and where will these classes meet?
- The in-person meetings days, times, and location will be listed on the class schedule.
- The online parts will also have specific dates and times mentioned in the class schedule.
Is this course format right for me?
- You prefer meeting at scheduled times and are comfortable meeting virtually (e.g., Google Meets or Zoom)