how it works

Fairleigh Dickinson University
School of Computer Sciences and Engineering

How On-line Programs Work

The program is designed for professional and adult learners who would like to broaden their knowledge, need to keep pace with new developments in their professions, or earn a degree but cannot attend conventional classes. The distance learning program will provide the student with flexibility in attending the program without specific time, day, and location constraints in learning the course materials and completing the course requirements. Many engineering professionals have business travel that forces them to miss classes; the use of modern communications technology allows them to keep up anywhere and any place. The prepared lecture notes are posted weekly on the web. Continuing guidance from and interaction with their professors via e-mail, fax, telephone, and other telecommunication methods is available throughout the course. Assignments are also regularly provided to gauge student performance as in a conventional course.
SCSE uses an authoring software called Blackboard Learning System, to create its web-based courses. Students can access materials on our Web site anytime and anyplace with a computer, a modem, a web browser, and an Internet connection.
The "Course Information" section provides the course information, including procedures, syllabus, grading policies, and the required textbook. The instructor posts any announcements in the "announcement" section and schedules classes, tests, homework assignments and other events in the "Course Materials" section. Students can send e-mail to and connect to the home pages of other students in the "Communication" section. In addition, students can access lecture notes, discussion forums, and selected web links in the "External Links" section. The discussion forums allow students and the instructor to post questions, answers, and comments anytime and anywhere but not necessarily at the same time. The "Tools" section allows the student to create their personal home pages and change their passwords.