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Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ )
FAQ for Distance Learning at USF St. Petersburg
How do I view the class notes?
The file types used for note will be Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Word. If you do not have either of these, visit http://www.dl.usf.edu and scroll down to "technical requirements". Here you will find links to download a free Microsoft Word and PowerPoint viewer.
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Can I view the distance learning videos using dialup service?
I'm sorry but using a dialup Internet connection will not work. Even if you have Netzero accelerated service. Netzero is designed for standard web browsing but not streaming video. You should have a broadband connection. For information on discounts for broadband connections visit campus computings promotions page.
You can always use any open use student computers located at any USF campus to view your course. The USF St. Petersburg library has open use computers located on the first floor, or you can visit USF St. Petersburg's distance learning lab located on the 2 nd floor of the library (room 238).
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When I subscribe to the course podcast, does it send new lectures every week or can I download all of the lectures ahead of time?
Every video is available now for download for podcasting. Once you are subscribed, you will see all the videos. You will need to click the "get" button to download each video.
Here are directions on how to subscribe to a USF St. Petersburg
podcast using Apple's iTunes. (Windows 2000/XP or Mac OS X v10.2.8 or later)
1. Download iTunes from Apple's website:
http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/ (It's free!)
2. Open iTunes
3. Select Menu > Advanced > Subscribe to Podcast 
4. Enter the address of the podcast. Example: http://www.dl.usf.edu/podcast/clp4443.xml
and click "OK"
You are now subscribed to the podcast.
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Problems viewing or download podcast files?
The image below was taken right after subscribing to the podcast. Note that all the lectures are listed (1-26). You might need to move the columns over to see the complete title name (blue arrow).
Lecture one was automatically downloaded when I subscribed and is listed in bold text. The lectures that I have not downloaded are grayed out. Now if I want to see lecture two, I will need to click the "GET" button (red Arrow) next to the lecture two's name. This needs to be done each time you want to video a new lecture. Note that the blue dot to the left of the name indicates that the lecture has not been viewed.
To view the lecture, using your computer, just double click the video and iTunes will start to the video in the lower left corner. To enlarge or move the video, just double click the video screen and it will open in a second window. If you are using an ipod to view your lecture, follow Apple's directions to copy the podcast files to your ipod.
Click for larger view
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Problems viewing streaming video files?
Most of the time simply clearing your internet temporary files, also known as internet cache, will clear up non-playing videos and constance buffering problems.
Internet Explorer 6:
- Open Internet Explorer
- At the top of the screen, click in tools
- In the tools menu, click on Internet Options
4. In the Internet Options window, find the Temporary Internet Files section. Click on Delete Files...
5. A Delete Files window will appear. Place a check mark in the box next to Delete all offline content and click OK.
6. When this is finished, you can click OK on the Internet Options window and you are finished.
Internet Explorer 7
- Open Internet Explorer
- At the top of the screen, click Tools
- In the Tools menu, click on Internet Options...
If you don't see the tools menu hold down the alt and t key on the keyboard.
4. In the Internet Options window, find the Temporary Internet Files section. Click on Delete.
5. A Delete Browsing History window will appear. Click on the Delete Files... button.
6. A verification screen will then come uo. Click Yes to delete the files.
7. When this is finished, you can click Close and then OK on the Internet Options window and you are finished.
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What is "Distance Learning"?
Distance Learning is a type of class where there is a separation of either space or time between you and the instructor and/or the rest of your class. Distance Learning offered at USF St. Petersburg is Web-Based.
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How is a Distance Class Different from a Regular Class?
You will primarily interact with your instructor and/or classmates online. Web-Based Classes typically have an on-campus face to face orientation but then have the rest of class activities occur online.
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What Equipment Do I Need for a Distance Class?
For Web-Based Classes , regular access to a reliable computer with Internet access (especially high speed Internet access) will make it a much more enjoyable class experience. USF St. Petersburg Open Computer Labs are also available for use during posted hours. Individual classes or instructors may have activities that may require specialized equipment but they will let you know this on the syllabus or at the orientation/1st class.
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Advantages of Distance Learning
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Scheduling Flexibility and convenience:
Most forms of distance learning (but not all!) do not require you to physically be in a physical classroom at a certain time each week.
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Universal access: Most forms of distance learning (again - not all!) allow you access to course materials at your convenience.
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Self-paced learning , depending on class and medium
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Travel savings: With the rising cost of gasoline, you can save money and not have to drive to campus one more times a week.
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Challenges of Distance Learning
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Keeping up with coursework possibly without regular bricks and mortar contact with instructor
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Possibly No regular "face time" of instructor or peers to get immediate interaction.
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Need of interacting with an instructor over the phone, or e-mail to get your questions answered vs a face to face conversation
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Receiving primary course "lecture" content through electronic means
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