Great Basin College offers many "distance" education courses for those who are unable to enroll in traditional, face-to-face classes due to work, family, location, or any other reason. They are delivered in a variety of methods summarized below. For detailed information, including equipment needs, please see the links at left.

Distance education courses at GBC earn the same credits, follow the same course outline, have the same learning outcomes, and require the same academic rigor as traditional face-to-face courses. They are a means of accessing college courses for those who would not otherwise be able to. However, they are not for everyone. A short questionnaire can help you determine if you are a good candidate for distance education (or call 775.753.2147).

Internet Courses (WebCampus)

Internet courses, called "WebCampus" at GBC, are very popular. You only need a working computer and Internet connection (see Equipment Needs in left menu). Location is not an issue. Although these courses typically adhere to a timetable for the completion of assignments and so on, they are convenient for those with work schedules and other commitments limiting their ability to attend scheduled classes. For current Internet/WebCampus courses see the Schedule of Courses.

Some regular GBC courses are "Internet enhanced," in that the Internet is used to exchange or submit assignments, take tests, and/or communicate with the instructor or other students.

Interactive Video Courses (IAV)

IAV courses originate in one facility and are broadcast to one or more other locations simultaneously. Students in remote classrooms interact with the instructor and other students by means of video screens and interactive audio in specially equipped classrooms. IAV classes, then, meet just like other classes. The only difference is that some of your classmates may be in a classroom with you while others are hundreds of miles away.

LiveNet Courses (WebCampus with LiveNet)

LiveNet courses are a special kind of Internet (WebCampus) courses. Like regular Internet classes, LiveNet classes are location independent in that they require only a computer and Internet connection (see Equipment Needs in left menu). They do, however, meet through the Internet at a specific times for course discussions. Students may participate in course discussion on their computer at home or from a Great Basin College computer lab using a special microphone headset available through the college. A 56K or higher Internet connection is required, DSL or cable modem is highly recommended. For current LiveNet courses see the Schedule of Courses.

Telecourses

Telecourses are primarily textbook- and workbook-based courses with 10-20 hours of videotape to supplement the text materials. Telecourses are the oldest method of distance education and are an updated version of correspondence courses currently offered only by the GBC Business Department. In communities offering telecourses, they are advertised locally. Telecourse students check out videotapes for viewing at one of GBC’s campuses or centers.