Online Learning
Welcome to Online Learning!
Online learning replaces traditional classroom learning with the flexibility of learning online through your computer. You can access online courses anywhere there is an internet connection.
Online, OL courses are asynchronous, meaning there are no live lectures to attend. Asynchronous courses have weekly schedules with deadlines that must be followed. Courses are available 24/7 allowing access to content anytime during the week to complete tasks outlined on the course schedule.
OL courses are hosted on web-based learning systems Blackboard and Brightspace. Videos, modules and discussion boards are different tools used to support learning. Assignments or tests are learning evaluations which are completed within the course. OL courses also have facilitators to answer questions, encourage discussion and provide feedback. Learning tools, assignments and tests vary by course.
Students taking OL courses must be self-motivated and committed to meeting deadlines listed on the course schedule. Students should expect to spend 5 to 12 hours per week on a single course depending on their knowledge of the course content.
To find out if online learning is right for you, take the quiz.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, online, OL courses are not self-paced. Every course has a start and end date, and a weekly schedule with deadlines that must be adhered to. Courses are available 24/7 allowing access to content anytime during the week to complete tasks outlined on the course schedule.
In rare cases, courses have mandatory group work where students may need to be available for group discussions. This will be outlined at the beginning of the course.An asynchronous course is an online course that does not have live lectures. Asynchronous courses have course schedules with weekly deadlines. Course content is accessible 24/7. Students must adhere to the schedule and complete assignments or tests according to the schedule deadlines. Every asynchronous course has a facilitator to answer questions and provide feedback.
Yes. You must be 19 years of age or older to register into an OntarioLearn course. Students 18 years of age or less must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent to register. For specific program admission requirements, please see the Admissions Department page.
Yes. Online courses will have assignments and/or exams which can be completed online within the course. The amount of assignments and exams will vary by course and are used to assess learning throughout the course.
No. Certificates are not granted for taking individual courses, they are only granted to students who have successfully completed all courses required in a post-secondary program. Post-secondary credit is given for successful completion of an online course. A copy of an official transcript can show course completion.
Most online courses are offered during the start of our three academic semesters (winter, spring and fall) and run for 14 weeks. Many courses also have monthly intakes, which means they start the first business days of the month and run for 14 weeks.