FAQS
FAQs about Our Courses
I want to enroll in a section that is full. How can I add this section?
If a section has reached the enrollment limit, you can add your name to the waitlist for the course via MyACC for Students. Should a seat open up, you’ll be one of the first people to be offered the opportunity to take that seat. Using the waitlist also benefits our department because we can see which courses and times have high demand in order to meet student demand.
Can I take any Communication Studies course to fulfill my degree requirements?
You’ll want to check your degree map to determine which Communication Studies course you should take. If your degree plan allows you to select from the General Education or Core Curriculum courses, you will choose one of the following courses: SPCH 1311 (Introduction to Speech Communication), SPCH 1315 (Public Speaking), SPCH 1318 (Interpersonal Communication), or SPCH 1321 (Business and Professional Communication). Check out our guide to selecting a course to help you decide which course is right for you.
How do I enroll in a Communication Studies course?
All enrollment is handled by the ACC Admissions & Records office, regardless of the type of course. Once you have completed the admission process, you may register online, on campus, or by phone. You may find the instructions for registering online useful, which are accessible here: https://bit.ly/33foygW. Current course schedules are available online at http://www6.austincc.edu/schedule/.
FAQs about Our Distance Learning Courses
How does a distance learning course in Communication Studies work?
A Communication Studies distance learning course is taught primarily online, using computer-based learning. Distance learning courses work best for students who enjoy active, autonomous learning.
Are distance learning courses self-paced?
No, though you may be able to work ahead of the course if you want. All assignments will have deadlines, and while you may work from your computer at your convenience, you will be expected to keep up with the class. All assignments and due dates will be listed on the Blackboard site and on the course schedule your instructor will provide during the orientation. You are responsible for knowing all due dates and submitting assignments on time.
How do I complete speech presentations or other oral assignments?
Most distance learning Communication Studies courses require online meetings throughout the term for you to complete major assignments and/or to deliver presentations. These meetings may be held onsite at an ACC campus or online using virtual meeting technology. For dates and other information regarding face-to-face or online meeting dates and other expectations (e.g. orientation), please visit the course schedule website and review the associated course notes.
How many meetings will I attend?
The number of meetings varies according to the course you are enrolled in and is determined by the course instructor. Please see the course notes (in the course schedule) and/or instructor’s website for information about the number of meetings your course will have. Please note that these meetings are mandatory in many cases, and may incur a penalty for failure to schedule and attending required assignment meetings. You are also welcome to reach out to the instructor via email for specific information about requirements.
I can’t make it to one of the meetings for my course. What can I do?
Always contact your instructor immediately about scheduling conflicts for online assignments, or other difficulties you are experiencing completing assignments. Be sure to review your course syllabus for specific directions regarding contact and notification, as well as policies regarding missed assignments. Missing a meeting may be an issue that will affect your final course grade. Check your course syllabus and/or reach out to your instructor for the penalties for missing a meeting.
FAQs about Hybrid Courses
What is a hybrid-classroom (HYC) course?
A hybrid course combines traditional face-to-face classroom instruction with online computer-based learning. This convenient format engages students in the active, autonomous learning process of an online course while also providing regularly scheduled interaction with the course instructor.
What is the difference between a hybrid course and an online course?
A hybrid course includes at least one day per week of the semester dedicated to a face-to-face class meeting, as well as work that is completed online. Students may be expected to do more readings and class preparation outside of class time, in order to make the best use of these face-to-face meetings. A standard classroom Communication Studies course meets for 1 hour and 20 minutes twice a week. A hybrid course meets only once a week, and there will be additional activities, usually web-based, in place of the other class meeting.
When and where will my section meet?
The meeting days, times, and locations for the classroom component are listed in the current Course Schedule, just as with regular classroom courses.
What will we do in class?
Class time will serve primarily as a lab. During class time, you may participate in class discussions, group activities, and oral presentations/assignments. Each individual instructor will have his or her own specific requirements, which are often discussed during the first class meeting, so it is important you attend every class during the semester you are enrolled.
What will we do online?
You will be using the ACC course management system called Blackboard (in addition to other course sites required by your instructor) for the online component of the course. Your specific course site should contain any and all information you will need to succeed in the course, as well as access to your course assignments. On the Blackboard website, there will be links to online resources to help you understand and learn the course material. There will also be instructions for the assignments and oral presentations that you will be required to complete.
Is the online work self-paced?
Hybrid courses are not self-paced courses due to the regularly scheduled face-to-face meetings required during the semester. Your instructor will provide you will a syllabus and course calendar at the first class meeting, so be sure to review the expectations and due dates for any and all assignments. These assignments and due dates should also be listed on your course Blackboard site. You are responsible for knowing all due dates and submitting assignments on time!