PTC Learning Connector: A Comprehensive Review of Online Learning Opportunities

The PTC Learning Connector offers a variety of online learning opportunities, including individual courses, full programs, and hybrid schedules that combine online and in-person training. These options are designed to accommodate busy schedules and provide students with flexibility in completing their coursework. This article provides a detailed review of the offerings, resources, and requirements associated with the PTC Learning Connector.

Diverse Online Course Offerings

PTC provides a wide array of online courses, spanning from Art History and Accounting to C++ Programming. These courses allow students to fulfill requirements for PTC’s academic programs with the added flexibility of online learning. Students comfortable with computers can benefit from this option while pursuing a degree.

To explore the available courses, one can search the online course catalog.

Complete Online Degree and Certificate Programs

PTC offers comprehensive degree, diploma, and certificate programs that can be completed entirely online. These programs cater to students seeking to advance their education remotely.

The following programs are available online:

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Associate Degree Programs

Associate in Arts
Associate in Science
A.A.S., Major in Administrative Office Technology
A.A.S., Major in Computer Technology
A.A.S., Major in Criminal Justice
A.A.S., Major in General Technology
A.A.S., Major in Business Administration

Certificates

Accounting
Certified IT Professional
CompTIA
Customer Service and Support
Cybersecurity
Entrepreneurship
Human Resource Management
MOS Certification
Office Technician
PC Technician
University Studies

Clicking on each title provides a complete list of course requirements and advisement information.

Hybrid Courses: Blending Online and On-Campus Learning

Hybrid courses combine the convenience of online learning with required on-campus activities. The dates and times for these on-campus sessions are announced at the beginning of the course.

To find hybrid course offerings, students can search the course catalog.

Preparing for Online Learning at PTC

Success in online learning at PTC requires students to be independent learners with strong time management and study skills. Regular access and operation of the D2L (Brightspace) course management system are essential. PTC strongly recommends that new online students complete the Self-Paced Student Brightspace D2L Training.

Proctored Exams and Assignments

All PTC online courses include at least one proctored exam or assignment. Students should review the Proctored Testing webpage and their course information for specific details.

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Accessing Courses on D2L

Enrolled students can access their D2L courses on the first day of class in the D2L "My Courses" area. Courses will not be accessible in the My Courses box until the start date.

Essential Learning Resources

PTC provides several learning resources to support online students:

Proctor Form for Non-PTC Campuses
D2L Getting Started Quick Guide
D2L Technical and System Support Information
Help with Supplemental Products
Pathway to Online Success
Academic Catalog
College Resources
Student Policies and Procedures
Student Grievance Procedure
Instructional Complaint Process
State Authorization
Student Complaints
CHE Student Complaint and Procedures

Minimum Hardware Requirements

To participate effectively in online courses, students should meet the following minimum hardware requirements:

2 GHz processor or faster
Wi-fi/internet connection of 3.0 Mb/s or higher (Recommended 10 Mb/s or higher. Connection speeds can be tested at fast.com)
4 GB Ram or greater (Recommend 8 GB or greater)
Built-in or external speakers
Built-in or external webcam
Built-in or external microphone
USB 2.0 port or adapter
Preferred Operating System: Windows 11

Note that some programs may have specific configuration requirements. Chromebooks are not recommended due to compatibility issues with certain platforms. If using a Chromebook, ensure it can receive OS updates.

Minimum Software Requirements

The following software is required for online courses:

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Microsoft Office 365 (license and software provided by PTC to all students)
Preferred Browser: Google Chrome
Multimedia apps or plug-ins: Adobe Reader

Instructions for installing Microsoft Office 365 for students are provided.

Reliable Internet Access

Reliable internet access is crucial for success in online learning. Students without a reliable home connection can explore alternative options, as many establishments within the PTC service area offer access to computers and high-speed internet.

Fees for Distance Education

Piedmont Technical College does not charge additional fees for distance education courses (teleclass/PEN, hybrid, and online). However, if a student takes a proctored assessment/test at a non-PTC campus, the proctoring institution may charge a fee, which is the student's responsibility. College staff will assist students in securing an assessment/testing site during the proctor approval process.

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)

Piedmont Technical College is an approved member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA).

LEARN Online: Instructor-Led and Self-Guided Courses

LEARN Online offers instructor-led and self-guided courses. Instructor-led courses feature a live instructor for real-time question answering. Self-guided classes provide the same training guide and virtual machine (VM) as instructor-led classes, but without an instructor. Upon completing a category of classes, students can take a Certification Exam.

Individual Learner Subscriptions

These subscriptions are designed for Individual Learners who do not have access to a corporate subscription. Register for unlimited classes and exams on the PTC Learning Connector for one year with a simple annual fee.

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