Online Learning FAQ

Online learning is a form of education where instruction occurs when students and instructors are in separate locations. Online learning at ECC consists of online classes and hybrid classes. We recognize that this learning occurs amidst many students' busy work schedules, family priorities, and other challenges. We’ve developed a wide range of online courses, helping students learn and make progress toward their degree or certificate goals. We are equipped to provide most of our services online. Whether on campus or online, we provide flexible options to help you succeed and get the most from online learning.

Online classes use the internet to access course content and serve as a communication tool between students and faculty members.

Hybrid classes deliver about 50 percent of instruction, evaluation, and communication electronically through the college’s online course management system. The time required in a traditional classroom setting is reduced but not eliminated.

D2L is the course management system used by ECC to access online classes. Faculty and students log into the system using their usernames and passwords. Students must be registered in a course using the D2L website to access the system.

Students registered in an online learning class will receive an informational email about one week before the class begins. This email contains important details about the course, including how to access it. It also provides log-in instructions for D2L, where the syllabus and other essential resources are available.

Your instructor remains an integral part of the learning process and provides specific course instructions and guidelines. Depending upon the class, various tools help you learn the course content.

Most online instructors provide a week-by-week schedule, while other instructors allow students to self-pace their learning.

Yes, as you are required to learn the same material. The only difference is the course delivery method.

Yes. Whether you are enrolled in online classes, hybrid classes, or traditional classes, the financial aid process is the same.

Yes. There is also an online orientation available for students. This orientation will provide you with the information needed for first-time online learning students. You may complete the orientation entirely or select the areas that fit your needs.

Yes. Public computers in the college’s labs and library offer internet access, word processing, software programs, and computer print stations. ECC provides a technology loaner program with Chromebooks, hotspots, graphing calculators, childcare grants, and other support to help students succeed. If you are currently registered, you can check out Chromebooks by requesting them at the library's Circulation Desk in Building C. Don't hesitate to contact the Circulation desk at 847-214-7337 if you have any questions.

The computers in the college's computer labs and library have free Internet access. To connect your computer to the internet, investigate different internet service providers (ISP). You may be eligible for the Internet Essentials Service if you participate in programs like the National School Lunch Program or Medicaid. Other qualifying programs include housing assistance, SNAP, SSI, and the Federal Pell Grant.

Need service right now? Illinois state agencies released a wi-fi hotspot map to help students without internet access at home to study.

Check out the locations near you.

No. Register for an online class precisely the same way you register for any other course. Apply and register on the ECC website.

For online classes, testing depends upon the instructor. Most exams are completed online. Some classes require a proctored setting. This proctored setting can include the ECC testing center, your local college, or your local library; proctored tests are arranged with your class instructor.

ECC transcripts do not differentiate between online learning and face-to-face courses.

If your technical problems involve getting or staying connected to the internet, contact your internet service provider (ISP). Once you are online and have problems with your course website, contact the online learning help desk at 847-214-7620 or email d2lhelpdesk@elgin.edu. In your email, include the following:

• Your first and last name
• ECC ID number
• Course section of the inquiry
• Professor(s) name