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 on campus activities (such as labs). Check with your instructor for more details. Many online courses (both Internet and Internet Assisted) require proctored exams. If you are unable to come to our campus to take exams, please contact your instructor to set up proctoring arrangements.

Is there an Orientation for Online Courses?

Yes. ASU-Beebe wants to see you succeed in every course that you take. We offer orientation sessions on our campus for online students the last business day before each academic term begins. Students should report to the University Center in Beebe or to the ASU-Heber Springs campus. If you have any questions concerning these sessions, please contact the office of Distance Learning.

Is there an alternative to coming to campus for online orientation?

A CD-Rom is available in the ASU-Beebe bookstore for a modest price that will supply you with the information that you would have received in an on-campus orientation session. You can order a CD by calling the bookstore at (501)882-8249.

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 be able to run the latest versions of Netscape (7.2) and/or Internet Explorer (6.0). 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 (Internet Explorer, Netscape, etc). Thus far, Netscape 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.

Are there any known software conflicts with WebCT?

For current software issues, visit www.webct.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 the ASU-Beebe bookstore (501)882-8249 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. 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 Student ID 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 help desk at (501)882-4409 or webctadmin@asub.edu.