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Online Student Experiences at QC

Online Courses at Quincy College 

Whether you are taking one course or completing your degree online, Quincy College has the courses, instructors, and support to help you achieve your goals. Our online student experience offers the flexibility and convenience necessary for the work-life-learn balance of the 21st Century. Whether you attend part-time or full-time, we offer a variety of course offerings throughout the semester to help you organize and learn how to learn effectively.

We recognize that you are a busy person with a busy life, so we have created an online learning model that works with you and for you. You will find flexible course scheduling throughout each semester with our 15-week, 10-week, and 7-week options. In addition to on-campus classes, Quincy College offers five types of online learning experiences: Online Synchronous, Online Asynchronous, Blended Online, Hybrid and Hyflex Courses.

What is synchronous online learning like at Quincy College?

  • Synchronous online courses are fully online and follow a schedule with specific dates and times for mandatory, live sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams. During the live sessions, you will engage with your instructor and classmates in real-time. These sessions typically include lectures, discussions, Q&A sessions, and collaborative activities.
  • Synchronous online courses provide a lot of social interaction such as real-time support, communication, collaboration, discussion, and sharing using Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Canvas.
  • Synchronous online course materials such as instructional videos, and activities such as quizzes or homework submission with due dates are managed online in Canvas.

This course experience works best for:

  • Students who have time to attend scheduled, live class meetings online using Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
  • Students who have a quiet, physical place to be without distractions during the scheduled, mandatory, live sessions.
  • Students who feel comfortable using technology such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Canvas.
  • Students who have technology, such as a laptop, webcam, and microphone, to interact with the course material, submit assignments and assessments online using Canvas, and attend mandatory class sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

What is asynchronous online learning like at Quincy College?

  • Asynchronous online courses at Quincy College are fully online and do not have a set class time in which you need to be at your computer. You will have the chance to interact with your professor and classmates for voluntary, live sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams. These sessions typically include content review, discussions, Q&A sessions, and collaborative activities.
  • Asynchronous online courses provide ways to engage with your instructors and peers, through online discussions, group work, peer to peer feedback and the voluntary, live sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
  • Asynchronous online course materials such as instructional videos, and activities such as quizzes or homework submission are managed and submitted online in Canvas.

This course experience works best for:

  • Independent, self-directed learners who like the flexibility to balance their own work-life-learn schedules.
  • Students who have effective, time management skills to manage online course expectations such as viewing instructional content, pre-recorded lectures, and submitting assignments and assessments online. Keep in mind that asynchronous online courses do not have a set class time in which you need to be at your computer.
  • Students who feel comfortable using technology such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Canvas.
  • Students who have technology, such as a laptop, webcam, and microphone, to interact with the course material, submit assignments and assessments online using Canvas, and attend voluntary class sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

What is hybrid learning like at Quincy College?

  • Hybrid courses are designed for students to enjoy course content online, in combination with scheduled, mandatory, on campus class meetings to interact with instructors and peers.
  • Hybrid course materials such as instructional videos, and activities such as quizzes or homework submission are managed and submitted online in Canvas.
  • Individual programs may require a different number of on campus hours, but no less than six hours, often delivered in three on campus class meetings throughout the semester.

This course experience works best for:

  • Independent, self-directed learners who like the flexibility to balance their own work-life-learn schedules.
  • Students who have effective time management skills to manage online course expectations such as viewing instructional content, pre-recorded lectures, and submitting assignments and assessments online.
  • Students who have time to attend scheduled, mandatory class meetings on campus.
  • Students who feel comfortable using technology such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Canvas.
  • Students who have technology, such as a laptop, webcam, and microphone, to interact with the course materials and submit assignments and assessments online using Canvas.

What is blended online learning like at Quincy College?

  • Blended online courses follow a schedule with specific dates and times for mandatory, live sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams. During the live sessions, you will engage with your instructor and classmates in real-time. These sessions typically include time to practice new skills, discussions, Q&A sessions, and collaborative activities.
  • Blended online courses provide social interaction such as real-time support, communication, collaboration, discussion, and sharing using Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Canvas.
  • Blended online courses use the flipped classroom model. This means that students watch online lectures and interact with other course materials to learn new information before the mandatory, live class sessions. During the mandatory, live sessions students practice applying new information with their classmates while getting feedback and guidance from their professor.
  • Blended online course materials such as instructional videos, and activities such as quizzes or homework submission are managed and submitted online in Canvas.

This course experience works best for:

  • Independent, self-directed learners who like the flexibility to balance their own work-life-learn schedules.
  • Students who have the time to attend the scheduled, mandatory live sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
  • Students who have a quiet, physical place to be without distractions during scheduled, mandatory live sessions.
  • Students who feel comfortable using technology such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Canvas.
  • Students who have technology, such as a laptop, webcam, and microphone, to interact with the course materials and submit assignments and assessments online using Canvas.

Check on the Comparison Table to learn more about the different formats of online courses:

Comparison Table – Course Format

Check out the Faculty Tips for Online Success:

Fully online learning experiences that offer time for independent work, active learning engagement and interaction with instructors and peers.
Traditional online courses at Quincy College are 100% online and do not have a set class time in which you need to be at your computer. You will have an opportunity at least 3 times each semester to virtually (live) interact with your instructor and peers. These sessions are optional, but strongly recommended. All virtual sessions are recorded and placed in the course.

You will still engage with your instructors and peers, but instead of virtual or face-to-face discussions, you will participate in online discussions and submit your assignments online.

What is traditional online learning like at Quincy College?

Fully online learning experiences that offer time for independent work, active learning engagement and interaction with instructors and peers.
Traditional online courses at Quincy College are 100% online and do not have a set class time in which you need to be at your computer. You will still engage with your instructors and peers, but instead of virtual or face to face discussions, you will participate in online discussions and submit your assignments online.

What will I find in a traditional online class?

Using the Canvas LMS, you will find:
• A course syllabus
• A weekly to-do list
• A variety of learning materials such as videos, readings, websites, blogs
• Weekly assignments and assessments, such as tests and homework, with clear instructions and due dates
• Online discussions with clear instructions and set due dates

How does traditional online learning work at Quincy College?

Our traditional online courses use the Canvas Learning Management System to include videos, online activities, online assignments, and assessments such as tests and quizzes. Students have flexibility to independently enjoy course content, i.e., a variety of videos, readings, and simulations. Students engage with the instructors and peers in online discussions and submit assignments online with set deadlines. The use of Canvas, combined with best practices in teaching, provides students with well-rounded, high-quality learning experiences.

What is blended online learning like at Quincy College?

Fully online learning experiences that offer time for independent work and mandatory, virtual (live) classes for active learning and interaction with instructors and peers.
Blended learning at Quincy College is a flexible way of completing your coursework without feeling isolated. We combine the independent, online aspects of learning with mandatory, virtual (live) classroom experiences to maximize the benefits of both.

What will I find in a blended online class?

Using the Canvas LMS, you will find:
• A course syllabus
• A weekly to-do list
• A variety of learning materials such as videos, readings, websites, blogs
• Weekly assignments and assessments, such as tests and homework, with clear instructions and due dates
• Scheduled virtual (live) class meetings that students must attend
• Links to the virtual (live) class meetings with clear instructions on how to join

How does blended online learning work at Quincy College?

Our blended online courses utilize the Zoom video conferencing platform, videos, online activities, and user-friendly technology within the Canvas LMS (Learning Management System). These tools, combined with best practices in teaching, provide students with high-quality learning experiences.
Our blended online courses are designed for students to enjoy course content, i.e., a variety of videos, readings, and simulations, in combination with scheduled, online class meeting times to interact virtually (live) with instructors and peers.

What is hybrid learning Like at Quincy College?

A combination of learning experiences that offer time for independent work online and mandatory, face-to-face, classes on campus for active learning and interaction with instructors and peers.
Hybrid courses at QC provide flexibility for students since most course activities are done online. Students enrolled in hybrid courses have time to work independently online and enjoy time interacting face-to-face with the instructor and peers on campus. Students receive a schedule of their mandatory, on campus classes. Please note that individual programs may require a different number of on campus hours, but no less than six hours.

What will I find in a hybrid class?

Using the Canvas LMS, you will find:
• A course syllabus, with scheduled, mandatory on-campus class meetings
• A weekly to-do list
• A variety of learning materials such as videos, readings, websites, blogs
• Weekly assignments and assessments, such as tests and homework, with clear
instructions and due dates

How do hybrid classes work at Quincy College?

Our hybrid courses are designed for students to enjoy course content online, in combination with scheduled, on-campus class meetings to interact with instructors and peers. Individual programs may require a different number of on campus hours, but no less than six hours, often delivered in three on-campus class meetings.

Hybrid courses also use the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) which includes videos, online activities, online assignments, and assessments such as tests and quizzes. The use of Canvas, combined with best practices in teaching, provides students with well-rounded, high-quality learning experiences.

What type of class experience works for me?

Whether you take a course on campus or online, Quincy College designs all courses to help you achieve your goals, leading to academic success.

Traditional Online
This course experience works best for the following:
o Independent, self-directed learners who like the flexibility to balance their own work-life-learn schedules.
o Students who have effective time management skills to manage online course expectations. Keep in mind that online courses do not have a set class time for which you need to be on your computer.
o You will still engage with your instructors and peers, but instead of virtual (live) or face to face discussions, you will participate in online discussions and submit your assignments with set deadlines online.
Blended Online Learning
This course experience works best for the following:
o Independent, self-directed learners who like the flexibility to balance their own work-life-learn schedules.
o Students who have effective time management skills to manage online course expectations.
o Students who have time to attend scheduled, virtual (live) class meetings online.
o Students who have technology, such as a webcam and microphone, to attend and participate in the scheduled, virtual (live) class meetings.
Hybrid Learning
This course experience works best for the following:

o Independent, self-directed learners who like the flexibility to balance their own work-life-learn schedules.
o Students who have effective time management skills to manage online course expectations.
o Students who have time to attend scheduled class meetings on campus

Are online courses harder than on campus courses?

Our online (traditional, blended and hybrid) classes are no more or less difficult than on campus classes. Students should keep in mind that all courses, including on campus courses, require self-discipline in getting schoolwork done and submitted on time.

What will help me succeed in an online class?

There are many advantages to taking an online class and with the help of effective online learning skills, you’ll get the most out of your online learning experience. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Time Management: Be sure to block out time during the week to work on assignments. Creating a weekly schedule will help you set time for reading, watching videos, studying and participating in online discussions. Syllabus: Carefully read through the syllabus to identify requirements and major assignments. Note when assignments and other expectations are due throughout the semester.
2. Consistent place to work: Create a place to work without distractions. Be sure to work there regularly so that you can establish a routine.
3. Actively Participate: Participate in your online course every day. Even 30 minutes to engage in an online discussion or watch a video can help you stay on track.
4. Connect with your instructor: If you feel like you are falling behind, reach out to the instructor or your advisor for support right away.
5. Plan Ahead: Give yourself enough time to complete schoolwork so you are not working on something at the last minute. Keep in mind that for every credit you will work 3-hours, so for a 3-credit class you should expect to work 9-hours per week.
6. Weekly Check-ins: Check in with yourself weekly so you can get the most out of your online class. Monitor your progress by asking yourself if you are understanding material and submitting work in on time. Check assignment due dates and keep a calendar so that you stay up to date with your course work.

Who teaches the online courses?

Our online courses are taught by our own faculty, who also teach on campus. Most importantly, all our faculty go through training on how to teach online and how to design high-quality online courses.

Who creates the online courses?

All our online courses are designed by our own faculty and use different types of readings, videos, simulations, blogs, and other forms of digital media as instructional tools. All faculty go through extensive training to learn how to design online courses with students in mind.

What services do online students have access to?

All students taking online classes have access to all student services, including virtual tutoring, library resources, technology support, accessibility services, student success coaching and academic advising and free online workshops on how to use Canvas, Microsoft 365 tools, study skills and learning how to learn.

Do online classes meet at a certain time?

Quincy College offers three types of online class experiences: our traditional online courses, our blended online courses and our hybrid courses.
• Traditional Online Courses
o Our traditional online classes do not have set, scheduled times to meet.
o These courses offer the most flexibility in terms of a work-life-learn balance.
o Students participate in discussion boards to interact with their instructors and peers and submit assignments online.
• Blended Online Courses
o Our blended courses do have set, scheduled times to meet virtually (live) as a class.
o Students attend weekly class meetings virtually (live), participate in online discussions with instructors and peers, and submit assignments online.
o As with on-campus classes, our blended classes are mandatory.
• Hybrid Courses
o Our hybrid courses do have set, scheduled times to meet on campus, face-to-face as a class.
o Students will attend on campus class meetings during the semester and participate in online discussions with instructors and peers, and submit assignments online.
o As with on-campus classes, our hybrid classes are mandatory.

The QC Guide to Student Success

Thank you for being part of our QC Community!

Our online and on campus student experience offers the flexibility and convenience necessary for the work-life-learn balance of the 21st Century. Whether you attend part-time or full-time, we offer live, online and on campus classes throughout the semester to help you organize and discover how to learn effectively. Our Guide to Student Success contains information and resources to help you succeed in all of your courses.

Download the 2023-2024 Student Success Guide Here

QC Student 1:1 Support

While you take our on campus or online classes, the QC Learning Innovation Hub is here to help you overcome any challenges you may encounter throughout the semester so you can get the most out of your education.

Whether you are a new college student, a returning student, new to online learning or just need a bit of help getting started with something, we are here to help. Please visit virtually via the Calendly Link below or visit our Hub campus location (PP 3rd floor-Library) Monday through Thursday 10:00am – 2:00pm for 1:1 support!

QC Student 1:1 Support via Zoom or at the Quincy campus is available between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm Monday through Thursday.

To receive support outside of these hours, please call or email the Hub:

  • 617-405-5917
  • innovation@quincycollege.edu

Student Learning Series

All Student Learning Series Workshops are free to enrolled Quincy College students.

Getting Started Workshops

Virtually and On Campus (Student sign up required)

Join our Getting Started Workshops to help you become familiar with the College’s Learning Management System – Canvas, the video learning software – Canvas Studio, and the video conferencing tool – Zoom.

This workshop provides an overview of the basic use of Canvas, Canvas Studio, and Zoom including how to:

  1. Participate in online discussions
  2. Create and submit online assignments
  3. Take online quizzes
  4. Enable video captions
  5. Submit video assignments
  6. Join a Zoom session
  7. Use the basic features of Zoom

Register for an upcoming session

Virtual Sessions via Zoom

On-Campus Sessions

  • Thursday, September 7th, from 10 am – 11 am 
  • Monday, September 11th, from 2 pm – 3pm
  • Wednesday, September 13th, from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
  • Thursday, October 5th, from 10 am – 11 am
  • Wednesday, October 11th, from 2 pm – 3 pm
  • Thursday, November 2nd, from 10 am – 11 am
  • Monday, November 6th, from 2 pm – 3pm

*Register from this link: Sign up Form for On Campus Sessions

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