Arkansas State University-Beebe with campuses at Beebe, Heber Springs, Little Rock Air Force Base, and Searcy

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an ASU-Beebe student to take online courses?

Yes, you need be admitted to ASU-Beebe before you will be allowed to enroll in an online course. You can apply for admission online from the ASU-Beebe website. Contact ASU-Beebe Admissions (800)632-9985 or (501)882-8260 for more information.

Are online courses easier than traditional (face-to-face) courses?

No. You will still be required to learn the same material. The main difference will be the way that you receive the course material. Instead of a face-to-face classroom setting, you will learn the material by using the Internet. Online students must overcome procrastination to succeed as online courses require you to show initiative in logging on regularly and completing course assignments and activities on your own.

Will I save time by taking an online course?

You will likely save time only when you consider the amount of time spent in commuting to campus. However, you will still have to spend as much, if not more, time participating in the online course. The key is that you will be able to choose when the most convenient time will be to spend that time.

Will I ever be required to come to the ASU-Beebe campus?

Internet Assisted (IA) courses require activities on campus (such as labs). Check with your instructor for more details. All ASU-Beebe online courses require at least one proctored exam though you do not have to come to the ASU-Beebe campus for proctoring. Check out the Proctoring Information page for more details.

Is there an Orientation for Online Courses?

Yes. You can find out how to get started taking online courses by going to the Orientation link on this site. You can also purchase a CD-Rom in the ASU-Beebe Bookstore with the same information.

What sort of computer skills will I need to take an online course?

You need to be able to navigate the Internet. You also need to be able to use a word processor (like Microsoft Word). You need to be able to use email, and you need to be familiar with uploading, downloading, and opening files.

What are the technical requirements for an online course?

Your computer needs to be modern enough to comfortably navigate the Internet. You need to have the latest version of Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Internet Explorer properly installed. You need a reliable Internet connection. As a rule of thumb, if your computer is not fast enough to comfortably surf the internet, you will find online courses to be quite frustrating.

Do I need to have a computer at home to take an online course?

No, but you need to have reliable access to a computer. If you do not have a computer at your home, please make sure that your access to a computer is dependable. If you are planning to access your course from your workplace, you may need to check with your supervisor and/or network administrator. However, having said all of this, the best way to take an online course is to have a computer at home on which you can rely to access your course.

Are there any software requirements?

For most courses, the main requirement will be a browser (Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Internet Explorer). Thus far, Firefox has proven to be more compatible with WebCT. Some courses will require that you use additional software such as Microsoft Office for assignments. Check with your instructor for further details.

Where can I get a copy of Microsoft Office through ASU-Beebe?

Through the institutional license between ASU-Beebe and Microsoft Corporation, you can install Microsoft Office at no additional cost to you if you are an ASU-Beebe student. If you are in the Beebe,AR, area, come by Abington Library to pick up a copy. If not, please contact the Office of Distance Learning.

Are there any known software conflicts with WebCT?

For current software issues, visit www.blackboard.com. WebCT will spawn pop-up windows for quizzes, mail, and discussions. If you are running pop-up blocking software, please consult the software vendor for instructions for disabling pop-up blocking.

Do I need to buy a textbook?

For most courses, yes, you will need to purchase a textbook. Contact your instructor or check out the ASU-Beebe bookstore for more information.

Where do I find the WebCT login page?

You can login by following the links to WebCT from the ASU-Beebe webpage, www.asub.edu or by going directly to http://webct6.asub.edu. Bookmark this page, because the WebCT server may be functioning even if the main ASU-Beebe webpage is down.

What USER ID and password will I use to log in to WebCT for the first time?

Your initial USER ID and password for WebCT will be identical to your Campus Connect login information. Your Campus Assigned Student ID Number will be your WebCT Student ID, and your birthdate – in 6 digit format – will be your password (March 15, 1977 would be 031577). If your login does not work, please contact the WebCT Help Desk.