When you learn online at Trent, you connect to world-class faculty, a community of like-minded students, supportive staff, and academic programs that provide specialized skills in some of the most competitive industries.
Trent Online offers a flexible approach to distance education, along with a deep commitment to our students and a trusted reputation.
Courses are created by faculty and learning designers who understand the specific needs of students in an online environment. Using multiple communication platforms, you'll complete weekly assignments, engage in discussions and occasional group work, as well as other activities developed to enhance your learning.
All online courses are delivered through the Blackboard Learning System and will include a combination of some of the following:
- digital readings available through our library
- eBooks
- mini video lectures
- course discussions
- group activities
- laboratory simulations
- individual assignments
- take home exams
- formal proctored exams
- career-related experience through experiential learning
You get to choose how to schedule your week, although instructors may schedule certain activities and assignments for particular dates and times.
Studying away from campus may seem a bit intimidating, but you aren’t on your own. As an active participant, you’ll enjoy the support and close communication with your classmates and instructor in a virtual small-group setting.
Learning Expectations
Time Management
With the convenience of determining your own work schedule comes some additional responsibility. Be prepared to commit the same amount of time to your studies as you would with in-person classes. Consider the number of hours you’ll need to watch video lectures, read through the materials, understand the content, and participate in discussions when you’re building your schedule. Although technical difficulties can arise from time to time, you are still responsible for submitting your work on time, so it’s wise to have a backup plan in case you have troubles.
Discipline and Independence
You’ll be required to keep track of the ongoing course discussions, which means logging in frequently and being an active participant. Since you won’t be seeing your instructor face-to-face, you’ll need to know when to ask for help – whether that means reaching out to your peers, your instructor, or one of Trent’s Student Support services.
Reading Comprehension and Writing Skills
Your online studies will consist of a substantial amount of reading and written communication. You’ll need to be able to comprehend all of the core content and instructions. It is important that you are able to express yourself clearly and that you feel comfortable interacting with others in writing. Participating in online discussions can be more time consuming than classroom discussions, in part because it takes longer to type out comments. Participating is a key element of your grade—so there are typically more contributions from your peers to absorb than there would be in a classroom setting.
We have also created a list of guidelines for you to refer to when communicating with your academic peers in an online course.
What You Need
Technical Requirements
As long as you have regular access to a computer and internet service, there are no additional costs to participate in an online course. It is recommended that you have a webcam and microphone for office hours, video-conference discussion groups or lectures, and virtually proctored exams.
System Requirements
- Windows 8 or 7 / Mac OSX 10 and higher
- An up-to-date web browser such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Internet Explorer
The most recent versions of the following plug-ins are required for many of the resources available in your online course:
- Adobe Flash Player
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- RealPlayer (Basic)
- Apple QuickTime Player
- Java v7 or higher
- Silverlight 5 or higher
Microsoft Office
These programs can be very helpful for completing coursework. Windows and Mac versions of the Office365 software are available to all Trent students for free through the Microsoft Student Advantage program. Registered students are able to download and install the package on up to five devices.
Accessibility & Assistive Technology
All online courses offered by Trent comply with AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) guidelines and your success is our priority. You are encouraged to discuss your circumstances with our staff in Student Accessibility Services, and the process for requesting accommodations in your online courses. Students using assistive technologies will have specific computer and technology requirements. Any additional support you require with your technology can be provided through the IT Help Desk.