For some, learning in an online environment is a new experience. At UWS, we strive to make that experience community-driven and free of unnecessary stress. Interactive online discussion forums allow students with a diverse array of educational and professional backgrounds to learn from each other, as well as from assigned readings, lectures and occasional video assignments. Students can log in and view lectures at the times most convenient for them, rather than being required to bend their work and family schedules to meet at a predetermined hour. For busy professionals, the UWS learning environment is the way to go!
The Online Learning Experience at UWS
Interaction and Teaching Style
UWS online classes are conducted in a collaborative and dynamic manner, encouraging a high level of interaction with the material presented. The style of online learning at UWS encourages the development of critical and clinical thinking skills. Instructors moderate conversations in class forums and encourage discussions on current research articles that students gain access to once enrolled in the program. If students need individual time with an instructor, video calls can be scheduled and are encouraged. Community hubs within the online platform are used to get to know the instructors and fellow classmates, as well as learn about important program information and updates. Students can also track their progress and see their grades in real-time whenever they log in to view their online gradebook and receive ample feedback from instructors.
Online Environment
UWS online courses are created with universal design and accessibility principles in mind, making them user-friendly and easy to navigate. The university is always improving the online environment and implementing best practices in order to serve students better. Dedicated instructional designers at the UWS center for teaching and learning regularly work with and train faculty and program directors to improve courses and the student learning experience. All online students have the opportunity to use UWS-approved collaboration tools such as shared documents, Zoom and Microsoft TEAMS, and key exams are often taken via third-party proctoring service.
Flexibility and Accessibility
UWS online programs are global! We have instructors and students living all over the world. Because of the varied time zones, all class lectures (including those that are live-streamed), as well as special events such as expert guest lectures, are always recorded so that students may access them at a time that is most convenient to their schedule. Recorded lectures can be viewed via Canvas Studio, a tool designed specifically for student learning. With Canvas Studio, not only can students watch recordings on their own time, but they can search for key words, speed up or slow down the videos and download mp4 audio files for on-the-go listening!
“The online format is extremely accessible to someone with a busy and evolving work environment or lifestyle. I am able to pursue my studies while concurrently pursuing my career and professional sport experiences. I am also connected to others who I would not otherwise be able to learn from due to proximity. To get all of the learners who also work in sport or other performance realms under one roof is logistically impossible, and the online platform allows for the growth and discussion that you would get in a traditional classroom setting.”
— Chrissy Holm, CMHC student
“Humans are capable of extraordinary things. One of the most extraordinary things to witness is the change that one can undergo when they persevere through challenges. I have valuable knowledge and education in each of these domains that allows me to deliver a one of a kind healing experience to clients.”
— Nicole Blanchette, MA, MEd, CMHC student
“The best part about the UWS online format are the resources. It is wonderful to be able to save the articles, videos and web links for later use. Further, the online classrooms offer clear schedules for deadlines, requirements and expectations that are needed for a busy schedule like mine.”
— Gloria Rendon, MS, LCAS, CCS, CMHC alumna