Distance Education

Virginia State University offers several courses through Distance Education in Information Logistics Technology. If you are interested in taking courses in Information Logistics Technology, but commuting to campus is not an option or if traditional college classes do not fit into your busy schedule, then you might want to consider online learning.  The Information Logistics Technology program was designed to give the student, who has full-time employment or family obligations, a flexible schedule, while providing him/her the same quality education he/she would receive in the classroom.

Information Logistics Technology

The mission of the Information Logistics Technology program is to “support the needs of logistics industry in central and south-side Virginia, the United States, and worldwide.” The program prepares students to be technologists who can respond aggressively to the changing needs of the global marketplace. This includes applying research and theory in the development of marketable products, efficient processes, and designs that reflect an awareness of how technology meets the needs of society”. Our program provides extensive class-room study with laboratory explorations.

How does Online Courses work at Virginia State University?

Many Information Logistics Technology courses are offered through asynchronous, synchronous and hybrid classes that are offered online.  Virginia State University uses the course management system, Blackboard.  Blackboard has tabs or folders in which instructors can post course information, course materials and assignments for students to access easily.   Assignments and homework are submitted online electronically via email or through Blackboard, usually on a weekly basis. Many instructors give their tests online. 

Basic Definitions for Distance Education

Synchronous Course - Learning occurs in real time either in a classroom setting or in the distance environment. This is typically called a live course.

Asynchronous Course - Learning occurs at a different time and different place relative to the classic classroom environment. This is typically called an on-demand course.

DE Course - Any class including a collection of communications or sessions offered in a distance education environment for credit or otherwise required for a degree or certificate program. The learning environment may be synchronous through a live DE course or asynchronous through an on-demand DE course. Testing onsite or at a prearranged location may be required for a DE course.

Hybrid Course - A DE course that requires students within commuting distance from campus for onsite testing or the occasional meeting.