Distance Learning
Distance learning at Polk State College involves initiatives to bring many Polk State College courses to students in such a way that the traditional barriers of time and distance no longer exist. This includes coursework delivered over the Internet using various technologies such as web-based materials and discussion boards, as well as courses delivered using hybrid delivery modes (a mixture of Internet and on-campus class meetings) and courses using interactive television with all delivery methods potentially making use of Internet-based supplementary materials.
Distance Learning Courses
All Summer Term Internet/Hybrid Course Students:
You may access your Internet/Hybrid course(s) beginning May 2, 2011 (12 week, 8 week, and 1st 6 Week courses) and June 15, 2011 (2nd 6 week courses). Courses do NOT begin on this date; they begin on May 9, 2011 (12 week, 8 week, and 1st 6 week courses) and June 22, 2010 (2nd 6 week courses). The purpose of opening your course(s) up on the earlier date is to give you an opportunity to explore PAL, view basic course materials, and get comfortable with the online course environment.
To access any Internet or Hybrid course offered during the current term: Click on the links to the left for Using PAL (for new students who need instructions) or the PAL Homepage (for returning students who know their PAL login and password).
Getting Help
Should you have any problems logging in to or accessing your course(s) in PAL, contact the PAL Student Help Desk at (863-298-6839) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday or 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Saturday.
Note: the PAL Student Help Desk will not be available from December 17th, 2010 at 12:00 PM through January 3, 2011 at 8:00 AM when the College reopens for the Spring term.
You may also contact your instructor, and he/she will be happy to help you or direct you to others who can address your problem. Have a great term!
Internet-Supplemented Courses - information about courses with supplemental materials available in PAL.
General Information
How to Begin an Internet or Hybrid Course - where to find information about how to begin an Internet or Hybrid course once you are registered.
Using PAL (Polk Access to Learning) - Information about how to use PAL, Polk State College's learning management system for all Internet and Hybrid courses.
PAL Student Guide. A Student Guide to using PAL, Polk State College's learning management system, available in Adobe Acrobat format (you will need the free Adobe Reader available from the Adobe Website to view this file).
- Are Online Courses for You? - information to help you decide if you would be successful in an online course.
- Minimum Technology Requirements - information about the minimum technology required to pursue an Internet-delivered course at PSC.
Virus Damage Policy - information about PSC's Virus Damage Policy.
