Frequently Asked Questions

What skills do students need to succeed in an online class?
Students need adequate keyboard skills and good written communication skills. Experience using email and a web browser is highly recommended. Students also need to be self-motivated. Falling behind in an online course makes it very difficult to succeed. You need to stay on task, meet deadlines and pursue assistance for any technical problems that may occur. Login several times a week to keep up with what's going on in class. Take the "Is Online Learning for Me?" quiz on the Welcome page to see if you are a good candidate. Instructors may have additional suggestions and requirements for their individual classes.

Will I be completely on my own?
No. Although you will have more responsibility for time management and independent study than you do in a traditional course, you will be enrolled in the KVHS course through your local high school. You should contact the counselors and teachers at your school if you feel that you need additional help or need to discuss problems with online learning. Your school wants you to be successful. Also, you will be regularly communicating with and, in many cases, working on projects with other students in your online class. For specific problems with technology or your online course, there is also extensive help available through KVHS.

What type of computer and software do I need?
If you are taking the KVHS course at a local high school, the school will ensure that you have access to the hardware and software needed for KVHS courses. If you will also be accessing the course from home, see the Technical Requirements area for details and be sure to use the "Browser Test" on your home computer. You will be able to download needed software plug-ins for free. If you do not have a home computer with internet access, check with your local public library. Many Kentucky libraries have computers for public use.

What if I have a home computer but no internet access?
Check with your high school or email KVHS. It may be possible to provide you with 1-800 dial-up access for KVHS coursework.

How do online classes work? Do I have to be online at a certain time?
No, you typically don't have to be online at a certain time. There are deadlines and due dates to meet just as in a traditional class. Class discussion takes places in a discussion area where comments are displayed and left up throughout the semester. To participate, go to the threaded discussion area in the online classroom, read the items listed, and add your comments. Make sure that you participate in these discussions regularly. Participation in online discussions is important. Take it seriously; in most courses the quality of your "class participation" will be factored into your final grade.

I've registered for a class, now what?
Once your registration is processed, you will receive an orientation email with your login information. Login and get started on the orientation to the software so you are ready to start learning on Day 1 of the class.

I'm having trouble logging in to the online classroom, what do I do?
The Kentucky Virtual High School maintains a heldesk to assist with technical difficulties.  Staff is available to assist you 24 hours a day/7days a week.  If you are a KVHS student, call the technical support staff at 877-711-5847 or email kvhshelpdesk@ecollege.com.

I'm having trouble with my dial up connection. What do I do?
If you are using a dial-up account established through your school or through KVHS, contact your administrative contact at your school. If you are using another internet service provider (AOL, MSN, etc.) you will need to contact them directly.