Distance Education

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How Distance Education Works

Harvard’s online lectures use streaming video technology, along with standard Internet browser software.

The steps to online study

  1. Choose a course (see the online course offerings).
  2. Test the waters: watch a sample lecture, available below.
  3. Register during the registration period for the term.
  4. Log in to watch your online lectures weekly once the semester begins (see how to log in and watch course videos).

Lectures posted weekly on course websites

During the semester, new lecture videos for your course are posted weekly on the course website. Lectures are available about 48 hours after being held on campus. They are password-protected, and you log in to watch your videos.

Video format

We use streaming video technology and standard Internet browser software. Like TV, streaming video is sent to you as you view it. Because videos are not downloaded to your computer, the video begins quickly. It is compressed to ensure a steady stream, so the image is not full size.

Video and lecture slides appear on screen

The image below shows how a lecture is presented. The video and controls appear on the left side of the screen, and lecture materials are on the right.

Screenshot

Watch a sample lecture

Before you register, you can watch one of the following sample lectures to get a sense of the online course experience. If you have any difficulty watching them, read Watching Course Videos.

Sample courses and preview lectures are also available to download to your computer or mp3 player for free at Harvard Extension School on iTunes U.

Policies

Although courses take place online, students are expected to adhere to all academic policies and attend on-campus exams when necessary and feasible.