Students use the computer independently of other students and the instructor. This asynchronous learning allows students who have other responsibilities to participate in course offerings. Being able to send a message to the instructor at any time, instead of travelling to the campus during the instructor's posted office hours, makes it possible for those who have limited or no time beyond the normal classroom hours to talk to the instructor and the other students. Students are encouraged to send messages to me. This immediate communication eliminates what some see as the isolation of learning online.
Students attach assignments to email.
Discussion forum simulates the seminar, where each participant has an opportunity to respond to the comments of the instructor and other members of the class. The discussion forums are asynchronous, rely on 'threads' of conversation, and are text based. Marketing 2370 discussion forum questions include introduction, product, price, promotion, and place. A conference section allows students to ask questions about the course. Chat sessions are used to clarify material.