Online Learning and TN eCampus

Distanced Education course offerings which are guided by the Tennessee Board of Regents Distance Education policy: 2.05.00.00 which states that "each online course must provide for student-to-student interaction, student-to-content interaction, and instructor-to-student interaction, as well as opportunities for self-reflection and timely feedback from faculty member(s) teaching the course and students". This is further outlined by guidelines from the Department of Education which calls for "regular and substantive interaction" within the online classroom.

Online Delivery Modes 

1. Desktop Video Conferencing (synchronous):

Desktop Video Conferencing (DVC) classes are live online and must be attended at a specific time. DVC classes include the following:

• Live Streaming courses offered using video conferencing software
• Students attend class meetings during days and times shown in schedule (synchronous) without the need to be at physical campus location. Review the schedule for specific days and times. Review the syllabus and check with your instructor for meeting room links to attend the online class sessions.
• This class offers real-time guidance but not as much flexibility.
• Meet live with instructor and other students.  Not pre-recorded.
• Course materials such as the syllabus, assignments, gradebook will be located online so students can access 24/7.
• Students will need access to a computer with a camera, microphone, and access to high-speed internet.  Campus computers may be used but students must provide ear buds and will be limited to camera and chat functions.

2. Hybrid Courses (synchronous)

"Hybrid" is the name used to describe a course that combines the best of both options by combining both in-the-classroom instruction with online instruction. In a hybrid course, 50% of the learning takes place in live, synchronous meetings face to face with the instructor and 50% takes place in the online classroom.  Hybrid courses may include the following:

• Students are required to attend class meetings during days and times shown in schedule at a physical campus location (synchronous). Review the schedule for specific days and times. Review the syllabus and check with your instructor for meeting room links to attend the online class sessions.
• This class offers some flexibility and some real time instructor guidance.
• Live Streaming courses using Zoom video conferencing software (optional).
• Course materials such as the syllabus, assignments, gradebook will be located online so students can access 24/7.
• Students need access to a computer with a camera, microphone, and access to high-speed internet.  Campus computers may be used but students must provide ear buds and will be limited to camera and chat functions.

3. Columbia State WEB-Asynchronous:

TN eCampus (asynchronous)

Columbia State along with other Tennessee Board of Regents institutions, participates in online course offerings through TN eCampus.  The online education offered through TN eCampus mirrors the same education offered at the physical campus locations.  All campuses in the partnership are regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). You can learn more about TN eCampus classes, including the academic calendar, support services, contact information and more at TNeCampus.org.

• Students are NOT required to attend live, synchronous class meetings; instead students can access materials 24/7.  The course is 100% asynchronous.
• This class offers the most flexibility. Instructors offer guidance via office hours and appointments.
• Regular participation is required of students and may include discussion board activity, quiz and assignment completion and other activities. Review the syllabus and check with your instructor.
• The course is constructed with regular due dates, reading deadlines and other expectations of timely work completion by the student. Review the syllabus and check with your instructor.
• Video recordings of class material may be available.
• Course instructors may or may not be Columbia State Community College faculty members; TN eCampus courses are taught by qualified faculty members across the state, at sister community college institutions as part of a 20+ year collaborative effort.
• Visit the college webpage about TN eCampus.

Review the Guide: How to Search for Columbia State Courses in the Class Schedule for these course options.

Contact Academic, Engagement, and Innovation for further information pertaining to online courses or TN eCampus courses.

Columbia State Online classes contact: OnlineCampusHelp@ColumbiaState.edu

TN eCampus classes contact:  TNeCampus@ColumbiaState.edu

Complaint Resolution Policies and Procedures for Non-Tennessee Resident Students (SARA)

Complaint Resolution Policies and Procedures for Non-Tennessee Resident Students in State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement States, commonly known as SARA.

Student complaints relating to consumer protection laws that involve distance learning education offered under the terms and conditions of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), must first be filed with the institution to seek resolution.

Complainants not satisfied with the outcome of the Institution's internal process may appeal, within two years of the incident about which the complaint is made, to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

For purposes of this process, a complaint shall be defined as a formal assertion in writing that the terms of SARA or the laws, standards or regulations incorporated by the SARA Policies and Standards have been violated by the institution operating under the terms of SARA.

For a list of SARA member States, please visit the NC-SARA website. Students residing in non-SARA states should consult their respective State of residence for further instruction for filing a complaint.