Academic Year 2008-2009
A complete list of all distance education courses offered by Texas A&M can be found within the Texas A&M Course Schedule at TAMU course schedule (limit your subject search to 'Instructional Method: Web Based'). For course descriptions, please refer to the Texas A&M University Graduate Catalog at www.tamu.edu/admissions/catalogs, or contact the faculty member and department listed for the course. For information about admission to Texas A&M University and registration for these courses please visit the Texas A&M University Office of Admissions Web site at admissions.tamu.edu.
Course Delivery
Texas A&M University uses a variety of communication methods to provide access to some of the world's foremost experts as teachers and mentors. Course content and delivery methods are determined by the instructor on a semester-by-semester basis. In general, you will need access to a computer that is less than four years old with common software and plug-ins, cable or DSL Internet connection and up-to-date Web browser. Some courses may have specific technology requirements. The most common course delivery methods are described below. Always contact the instructor prior to registration if you have questions about course delivery methods.
Web-Based Instruction
All courses utilize the Web, but not all courses are delivered entirely via the Web. Many courses utilize the Blackboard Vista online course management tool, which provides course tools such as e-mail, discussion boards, chat rooms, gradebook, and calendar.
Face-To-Face Instruction
Although the Internet is the primary delivery system for course materials and student/ teacher communication, some courses may also include opportunities for face-to-face instruction. Instructors may schedule field trips, lab work and exams to be conducted at the College Station, Texas campus or elsewhere. Contact the instructor directly to inquire about face-to-face requirements before registering for a course.
Videoconferencing
When true face-to-face interaction is impossible, some instructors choose to communicate via video conference. This type of communication may be used on a regular or occasional basis as part of a course. The Texas A&M University System provides access to video conference facilities across the state of Texas through the Trans-Texas Video conference Network (TTVN). Please be aware that facilities are available in many locations, but some travel may be necessary to participate in certain courses. Arrangements for facilities outside the TTVN network may also be possible.
Webconferencing
Some courses utilize Webconferencing as a regular or occasional class meeting tool. Webconferencing combines voice-over-IP with chat, whiteboard, survey, and presentation features.
Directed Studies & Internships
Credit for some courses is earned through supervised on-the-job or project-based experience. Special arrangements for this type of study are developed in advance under the direction of the student's advisor.
Supplemental Materials
Instructors may provide supplemental materials on CD-ROM, DVD, or other media. However, these formats are not typically used as primary methods of delivery.
