ACT University

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Online Learning

ACT University delivers every course entirely online in Populi. The experience is built for clarity and steady progress across 16-week terms, with predictable milestones, documented instructor presence, and straightforward expectations for workload, integrity, and technology.

How the 16-week model works

  • Weekly release of a module with reading, a short lecture or demo, a discussion or practice task, and a graded submission.
  • Due dates follow a consistent pattern, so planning is simple.
  • Instructors post a weekly announcement that previews tasks, flags common pitfalls, and sets expectations.
  • A required orientation in Populi before your first course shows how to submit work, join discussions, and check grades.

RSI and instructor presence

Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) is part of how we teach online. Expect:

  • Weekly announcements and check-ins in each course
  • A visible office-hours schedule and Q&A discussion area
  • Replies to student messages within two business days
  • Assignment feedback within 7 days of the due date, with rubric notes or brief comments
  • Escalation for complex questions to program leadership when needed

Time on task and workload

Plan your week before it fills up:

  • Typical load for a 3-credit course is 12 to 15 hours per week.
  • A sample week may include 2–3 hours of reading/media, 2 hours of discussion and peer replies, 5–7 hours of applied work, plus brief checks
  • Larger projects are broken into milestones to avoid last-minute rushes
  • Use the Populi planner to map your week against work and family commitments

Assessments and integrity

What to expect:

  • A mix of discussions, short applied tasks, case write-ups, brief quizzes, and projects
  • Clear rubrics with examples of acceptable performance
  • Academic integrity policy includes guidance on acceptable use of AI tools and citation expectations
  • Grade-posting targets within 7 days so you can adjust your study plan

Technology requirements

Current desktop or laptop with a modern browser (Populi-compatible) and updates enabled

A stable internet connectionis adequate for video meetings and streaming course media.

Webcam,microphone,and speakers or headset for meetings and any proctoring

Ability to view and create standard documents and basic spreadsheets

Anti-malwareprotection andregular backups of coursework

Accessibility and universal design

Courses are designed to be usable from day one

  • Logical headings, descriptive link text, and readable contrast
  • Captions and/or transcripts for required media
  • Meaningful alt text for images and figures
  • Keyboard navigation and screen-reader compatibility checked against WCAG 2.2 AA
  • f you need an accommodation, start the confidential process through Student Services.
Student Services

Orientation and ongoing support

  • Ashort self-paced orientation in Populi is required before your first term
  • Self-service writing and study resources live in the LMS Resource Hub
  • Instructor office hours are posted inside each course
  • 24/7 technical support handles urgent access issues

Expect 12–15 hours per weekfor a3-credit course. Heavier weeks are flagged in advance.

Somecourses use optional or scheduled live sessions. When required, the schedule is
posted in the syllabus with alternatives for time-zone conflicts.

16 weeks per course with weekly mYes, for selected assessments. You’ll see requirements in the course and can run a system
check beforehand. Students with accommodations receive equivalent access.ilestones.

Getting started

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