FAQ
Got questions? We have answers! Here are a few answers to some of the questions frequently asked by students interested in our independent learning courses. You can also call CDE Mon-Fri 8am-5pm (AST) for help at 1-800-277-8060 or the Academic Advisor directly at 1-907-479-4706.You can download the FAQ as a PDF & Adobe Reader for free to view it.
Table of Contents
- Where are my books?
- How do I calculate my GPA?
- How can I tell if my course is Print-based or Web-based?
- How do I use Blackboard?
- How do I submit my lessons?
- How do I take exams?
Where are my books?
CDE works with the CRCD bookstore to provide books and materials to students taking our distance courses. However, students must directly contact the CRCD bookstore to inquire about shipping of books and refunds. You can call the CRCD bookstore toll-free at 1-877-651-4002. If the line continues to ring, please hold and wait-- a staff member will pick up your call as soon as they are able. You may also e-mail them at rycdebks@uaf.edu.
Please note: the CRCD bookstore (located at 2175 University Ave) is NOT the same as the campus bookstore. Some books or materials associated with CDE classes MUST be purchased at the CRCD bookstore. Please inquire before buying your materials elsewhere!
How do I calculate my GPA?
Your Grade Point Average can be calculated manually by determining the number of points you received for each grade in a semester (or cumulatively). UAF uses plus and minus grades. Here is a point break-down:
A 4.0A- 3.7
B+ 3.3
B 3.0
B- 2.7
C+ 2.3
C 2.0
C- 1.7
D+ 1.3
D 1.0
D- 0.7
F 0.0
Add the points for each grade you received in a semester (or cumulatively). For example, if Joe Smith received one A, two B+, one F, and one C+ last semester he would add 4.0+3.3+3.3+0.0+2.3= 12.9. Divide the total by the number of grades (five in this case) 12.9/5= 2.58 GPA.
You can also visit this site which provides an automatic GPA calculator: http://www.onlineconversion.com/grade_point_average.htm
How can I tell if my course is Print-based or Web-based?
Looking at the section number is the easiest way to tell. A course designated with a UY#, FS#, or US# section means it is a print-based class (Ex: UY1, FS3, US2). All print-based courses should come with a printed guide that includes all of your lessons. A course designated with UYletter, FX# or UX# means the course is web-based using Blackboard (Ex: UYB, FX1, UX3).
How do I use Blackboard?
Check out our handy website ( http://distance.uaf.edu/archives/students/studenthelp-full/using-blackboardnavigatio.php) containing instructions on how to get started with Blackboard. For technical assistance please call the Office of Information Technology Help Desk at 1-800-478-8226.
You can also request to be added to our Online Tutorial course which contains flash videos and other information on using BlackBoard (requires ability to log-in to Blackboard). Call the Academic Advisor at 907-479-4706 for more information.
How do I submit my lessons?
First and foremost, follow the instructions on your instructor’s syllabus. Some instructors will allow you to send assignments directly to them, but many will not. For web-based classes, submissions can be made within Blackboard. For print-based courses, you can mail printed copies of your lessons (with attached cover sheet) in the envelopes you should have received with your course materials (you can get more coversheets or envelopes by e-mailing us your request and your physical address at distance@uaf.edu). You can also fax lessons to us at 907-479-3443 or submit them electronically using the digital dropbox at our website (http://distance.uaf.edu/dropbox.php). Generally, CDE will not accept more than two assignments per course each week; additional submissions may be returned to you ungraded unless your instructor specifically permits otherwise. DO NOT WAIT until the week your course ends to submit all your lessons!
How do I take exams?
Fairbanks Students: Come to the CDE building on the corner of University Ave. and Davis Rd. (Google: 2175 University Ave. SO, Ste. 200 Fairbanks, AK 99709) any time Monday- Friday from 8am-5pm. There are extended hours at the end of each semester; check our website (http://www.distance.uaf.edu) for details. Computers are provided for tests on the web. CDE is very busy at the end of each semester, so it is best if you can take the test a week or two in advance to avoid waiting for an open testing station. You do not need to call to make an appointment.
Non-Fairbanks Students: Request someone to proctor the exam to you by requesting your test from the form located in your course materials or online at (http://www.distance.uaf.edu/archives/students/substudents/request-for-exam.php). Paper exams will be sent directly to the proctor. A password will be sent to a proctor for online exams. CDE can help you locate a proctor, but some common places to check are at public libraries and schools. Relatives, friends, co-workers, & students enrolled in CDE courses may not act as proctors. When completing the form make sure that your name, your proctor's information, and the exam number are recorded carefully.
ALL STUDENTS: Remember to bring identificaton to your testing site, as well as any materials allowed on your test (check your course syllabus to see if notes, books, calculators, or other resources are acceptable).CDE may have some supplies to lend on a first-come, first-served basis.You must submit all prior required lessons before taking an exam. Schedule your time carefully and pay attention to deadlines. It is a good idea to take your final exam at least two weeks before the deadline for your course to ensure it is delivered and graded on time. Please also note that exams may take from 45 minutes up to 4 hours, so be sure to allow yourself plenty of time at your testing site to complete the exam.
For more information please contact raexam@uaf.edu.
The FAQ was last updated on September 21, 2009!