Getting Started With Online Learning

Our courses provide the flexibility you need to balance your life and reduce stress, allowing you to focus on your learning.

PVCC offers three types of Online Courses

  • Live Online – Live Online classes have sessions that meet online on specific days and times. Students interact with the instructor and classmates in a virtual environment. Access to a computer or mobile device with Internet connection is required.

  • Online Classes – Online classes are conducted over the Internet with no scheduled class time. Homework, quizzes and participation take place on Canvas. 

  • Hybrid/Virtual - Part of the class will be held online without a set time to attend; the other part will occur at the time listed in the class schedule, either in a face-to-face format on campus or in a virtual format using a virtual platform.

Registering for Courses

Go to Find a Class to search for Courses. Once you're there, select the semester and college you want to attend, and under “More Search Options” select the delivery options ““Live Online” and/or “Online” and/or "Hybrid/Virtual"” to view available classes. Register for a course through Maricopa.edu, by calling (602) 787-7000 or in-person at the PVCC Welcome Center.

How can I make the most of my Courses?

Visit Canvas Resources and Support to learn about taking eCourses. To succeed in any online course consider the following:

  • Courses require time management skills. You’ll need to log in 3 or more times per week and spend at least 6 hours each week on a 3-credit course.
  • Most courses are not self-paced; they have definite start and stop dates, with assignments due on a regular basis.
  • You will be expected to read, listen to lectures and podcasts, visit websites, and interact online by posting comments on discussion boards, blogs and wikis.
  • Successful students are motivated, proactive learners who are also disciplined and patient.

What is netiquette?

Netiquette refers to etiquette on the Internet (or net). Online courses require a lot of written communication - both to fellow students and instructors. As such, it is important to communicate clearly and professionally. The Golden Rule of netiquette in an online class or environment, “Don’t do or say something online that you would not do or say in person.“

Your instructor will provide more netiquette tips and information in your course content.

Do a tech check

When technology is involved, you’ll need to be flexible and willing to do some troubleshooting. Aside from the personal learning skills that will lead to your success, some courses may test your technical skills.

Recommended basic technical skills

  • Ability to type approximately 30 words per minute.
  • Understand basic file management, including the ability to create, save, move, and copy word processing documents.
  • Knowledge of basic Internet navigation using a standard Web browser.

Equipment requirements

To be successful in your courses, you'll need regular access to a computer connected to the Internet (high-speed access recommended), speakers or headphones, a printer to print course documents and notes (optional, but recommended) and; microphone or webcam (also optional).

Software requirements

  • Internet browser (Chrome, Edge, FireFox, & Safari, etc)
  • Adobe Reader
  • A word processing application (Word, Word Perfect, Open Office) capable of saving a file
  • GoogleDocs - used for sharing of online documents, spreadsheets and presentations
  • Other course-specific software (as required by your instructor)

What to Do After You’ve Enrolled in an Online/Virtual Course

  • Check your student email for instructions from your instructor.
  • Login to Canvas using your MEID. Most eCourses are in Canvas. If yours is not, contact your instructor. To find their contact information, type their name in the search bar of this website.
  • Read the Notes section of your course in the online schedule.