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Common Terms & Definitions

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Common Terms in Online Learning

As a student, we understand that you're juggling many life responsibilities which is why UNO offers an array of classes to best fit your needs. We've compiled the following list to help you better understand the types of delivery modes (totally online, partially online, remote, and in person). When you're searching and registering for classes, it's important to select the delivery method that will work best for you.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous

Synchronous delivery means you will be required to connect in real-time at instructor-specified dates and times. This is often done through Zoom, but there are many methods your instructor may choose to interact with you and your classmates. Synchronous delivery is also sometimes called "live" or "real-time" instruction.

Asynchronous delivery means you can access your course and content virtually at any time and at your convenience. Students can log in and complete coursework as their schedule allows. Note that assignments may have due dates weekly or monthly depending on the course.

Totally Online / 850 section

Enrolling in an 850 section of a course means the course will be 100% online, or "Totally Online", and you are never expected to meet face-to-face. 850 sections have been specifically developed for online learning are widely delivered asynchronously, though some instructors may elect to have synchronous meeting times or elements of a course. Pay special attention to the "Course Notes" when you register for classes as this will tell you if there are synchronous dates and times or special requirements like a webcam or proctored testing.

Online Tuition Rates and Online Fees apply to 850 sections — we recommend exploring which services these cover, both on and off campus. Remember that you are welcome to come to campus to use the library, meet with instructors or classmates, or use other campus resources, but will never be required to do so in an 850 section.

Hybrid / 860 section

Hybrid courses, or 860 sections, are often called Blended courses and have been developed specifically for a mix of in-person and online or remote instruction. You can expect both asynchronous and synchronous elements in an 860 course — synchronous elements will typically include face-to-face meeting times and any virtual meetings that may be scheduled; asynchronous elements may include discussion boards, group projects, individual assignments, and correspondence with the instructor and other students. It is possible to have an 860 section that never meets in-person, but has synchronous meeting times so again pay special attention to the "Course Attributes/Notes" when you register for classes as this will tell you the expectations for synchronous dates and times or any special requirements.

Online Tuition Rates and Online Fees apply to 860 sections — we recommend exploring which services these cover, both on and off campus.

Remote / 820 section

An 820 section refers to a course that does not physically meet on campus but delivers content synchronously in a similar manner to the face-to-face classroom format. Remote courses utilize technology to continue maximizing engagement in the virtual classroom and use a variety of learning strategies.

Online Tuition Rates and Online Fees apply to 820 sections — we recommend exploring which services these cover, both on and off campus.

In Person / 001+ section

In person classes are delivered almost entirely in a physical classroom or space. Classes meet face-to-face at regularly scheduled times, often weekly, in pre-determined classrooms or meeting locations. These courses may use digital resources like Canvas to supplement communication or access to content, but will require you to attend classes on campus at UNO or a satellite location, such as Offutt Air Force Base. Again, pay special attention to the "Course Attributes/Notes" when you register for classes as this will tell you when and where the class will meet and any special requirements like a webcam or proctored testing.

On- or Off-Campus Tuition Rates and Fees apply to 001+ sections — we recommend exploring which services these cover, both on and off campus.

Office of Online Learning Team

Your Online Learning Home

Whether you're earning your degree fully-online or enhancing your on-campus college experience, the University of Nebraska at Omaha offers support for all students taking advantage of online learning. The Online Learning Team is here to help. Connect with us today.

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