Unlike normal undergraduate enrollment, distance-education courses may not require the student to attend the college to enroll. Some colleges may specify that the student attends enrollment, but colleges are normally flexible with distance-education enrollment. Several community colleges also offer a choice of start dates for distance-education students.
Distance-education courses are normally taken because of their flexibility. Many students do not have to attend a lesson at their community college and can instead use online lesson plans, electronic material or convenient tutorials with course tutors. Community colleges that offer distance-education courses have the facilities available to deliver effective distance-learning courses and provide students with as much support as a normal undergraduate student.
Community colleges deliver distance-education courses mainly through the Internet. There are two types of methods for delivering a course electronically: synchronous, where the student is present at the same time as the teacher but located remotely (this can normally be achieved their live video links); or asynchronous, where the student is not present remotely and students access course material according to their own schedule. Some community colleges will also offer a combination of each.
In general, distance education will cost the same amount as normal studies, but this depends on the college attended. Some colleges may charge more as distance-learning courses require more maintenance then normal courses, due to the amount of technology and teaching expertise required to teach the course. However, funding is available for distance-education courses as with normal courses; special aid is often available for students who are learning from a certain distance, and includes funding for materials and equipment. Check with your course provider to find out what financial support you can get.
Portland Community College places emphasis on providing accessible education for all students and offers a range of courses in traditional classrooms and distance-education programs. Coastline Community College also provides distance education, offering over 30 courses delivered in several media such as CD-ROM, cable TV and Internet courses provided through an electronic campus. Austin Community College, Minnesota Technical College, Florida State College and several California Community Colleges also offer distance education.