System iNetwork e-Learning FAQ


What is e-learning?
A paid live online course taught by a technical expert(s), typically over the course of five one-hour sessions which include playback reviews for each e-class session.

Who should take an e-learning course?
Programmers, developers, IT specialists or anyone looking to advance career/skills or enhance current skill set/knowledge of a particular technical content area or application.

How long is an e-learning class?
Typically e-learning classes are offered in five one-hour sessions, however additional online labs or other hands-on sessions may be offered outside of the course schedule.

How do I attend an e-learning class?
System iNetwork e-learning classes are delivered over your PC using WebEx technology with audio delivered using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology or through a private teleconference number provided at the beginning of the e-learning class.

What are the current rates to register for an e-learning class?
E-learning classes are based on discounted System iNetwork ProVIP membership prices. Rates vary per class and are open only to ProVIP Members; however, we offer a greatly discounted membership rate when you join in conjunction with an e-learning class. Sign up for an e-learning class today and receive all the benefits of the System iNetwork ProVIP membership. Call us at 1-800-650-1804 for more information.

Do you offer discounts or group rates for e-learning?
Group discounts are available for three or more individuals signing up for the same e-learning class. Please contact our education sales associates at 1-800-650-1804 for rates and more information.

What are the Minimum Technical Requirements?

  • 56KB Internet access (faster access highly recommended)*
  • PC hardware: 300 MHz, 128MB memory, 25 MB available disk space (some classes require more disk space), PC soundcard, and speakers
  • PC software: Windows 95 or higher (other software can be downloaded from the course site before the first class meeting)
  • Note: If you plan to take this class from an international location, a 56KB connection may not be fast enough to provide a great learning environment. For some international locations, a faster connection may be required and/or a teleconference line required for an additional $35.

Do I have to take the course at a specific time?
For the most part, yes. If you don't participate in the collaborative sessions, you will lose some of the benefits of an interactive training environment. But if you do miss a class, our cool playback solution will help you catch up. You'll also still get the class notes, assignments, and instructor feedback, but it'll be harder for you to learn. If you expect to miss several collaborative sessions, as scheduled, we don't recommend that you enroll in this course.

Are there any other costs, such as books or materials?
No. Unless clearly specified, all materials for our e-learning courses are covered in the course fee.

How can I get questions answered outside the collaborative sessions?
The instructor will be available via a combination of e-mail and WebEx chat, and in most cases, via a related discussion forum.

Will the course include audio or video?
Our current e-learning courses do not include video, however do provide the capability for sharing video. One-way instructor audio via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is included. We also have live presentation data, as well as live chat.

What are the requirements for using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to access the audio for the e-class?
All you need is the free WebEx software, speakers, a sound card and an Internet connection; preferably a fast one like you would get through a cable or DSL modem. There is no charge incurred for using the VoIP.

Do I need any special software to participate in the collaborative sessions?
Some software is needed to participate in the collaborative classroom sessions and the discussion forum. This software can be downloaded at no charge from WebEx and can be installed on multiple PCs (e.g., your home PC and your office PC) if necessary. Registered students will receive details of how to download and install the software. This information will be provided in the same e-mail as your login information and details of the pre-class orientation. In addition, you need to be on the Internet to participate (minimum requirements are a 56KB connection to the Internet, but we recommend faster connections if possible).

Do I need any special software to complete the homework assignments?
It depends on the course. For some courses, you may need a PDF reader, and there may be specific applications needed for specific courses, which should be posted on the pages related to the full description of each course. Registered students will receive details of how to download and install all software. (This information will be provided in the same e-mail as your login information and details of the pre-class orientation.)

What types of activities are scheduled for e-classes?
Online collaborative sessions usually last 45-60 minutes. Offline reading and programming activities (homework) are designed to be completed by students at their own pace between the scheduled collaborative sessions.

Are you serious about the Internet connection speed?
Yes. 56KB is the minimum Internet connection for collaborative sessions; however, you'll enjoy the class more with a faster connection. *

* Note: If you plan to take this class from an international location, a 56KB connection may not be fast enough to provide a great learning environment. For some international locations, a faster connection may be required and/or a teleconference line required for an additional $35.

Will certificates be issued to students who complete this course?
Yes, a certificate will be mailed to each student after the class is completed.

How long will course materials be available after the conclusion of the course?
Many of the course materials will be e-mailed directly to you or will be available online for 30 days following the course. Additional support beyond the scope of the course schedule is not covered by the course fee and is not guaranteed. However, the instructor will attempt to address any reasonable request for additional support via e-mail.

Do you offer customized e-learning courses?
Online and onsite customized e-learning classes are available per request for a designated group. Please contact our education sales associates at 1-800-650-1804 for rates and more information

What if I have more questions?
Drop us an e-mail anytime! For starters, try Sue Johnson at sjohnson@pentontech.com (You can also try the instructors of individual courses if your questions focus on specific course content.)

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