Frequently Asked Questions

What is WebCT?
WebCT is a software platform for Web-based teaching and learning. It combines a variety of tools, such as email, a bulletin board system, quizzes, and class lessons, into an easy-to-learn interface. As a student, you need only to log in and your entire class is available to you! WebCT may be used for a "stand-alone" online class or it may be used to enhance a traditional on-site class.

Can I connect to my WebCT class from home?
If you have a computer, an Internet connection from home, and a Web browser, you can access your WebCT class. We recommend that you use Netscape Navigator 4.5 or higher, or Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher for best results.

Does it matter whether I use a Mac or PC?
No, it does not matter which computer platform you use.

Can any student access classes on WebCT?
Only students registered in a class for which the instructor has chosen to use WebCT may access the class. Check with your instructor for confirmation.

What software do I need?
You will need a browser, the software tool that enables your computer to "read" pages on the World Wide Web. WebCT supports Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher and Netscape Navigator 4.5 or higher. WebCT does not support Netscape Navigator 6.0. Prior to using WebCT you may want to adjust your Browser settings for total compatibility with WebCT. The instructions are included at the following URL:
   http://www.webct.com/exchange/viewpage?name=exchange_browser_tuneup

Make sure your browser is enabled for Java and Javascript:

For Netscape Navigator:

Edit > Preferences > Advanced > Enable Java and Java Script

For Internet Explorer:

Tools > Internet Options > Advanced > Enable [Java] JIT Compiler

The WebCT software you will use resides on a WebCT server (physically located at Peninsula College). However, depending upon your class, you may also need to use other applications that reside on your own computer, such as MS Word for word processing or presentation programs.

Note to AOL users:

If you use America Online (AOL) for Web access, you will need the AOL version 4.0 or higher client and the Internet Explorer 5.0 browser. Do not use earlier versions of the AOL client with earlier versions of Internet Explorer, as you will have difficulty accessing many WebCT features. If you have an older version of the AOL client, you will need to connect through AOL, minimize the AOL client to maintain the connection, and use one of the required browsers outside of the AOL client.

I can't find some of the features in my WebCT class that I've read about. Where are they?
Each instructor customizes their WebCT class the way he or she wishes it to be. The instructor may have chosen not to make certain WebCT features or functions available to you for a particular class. Check with your instructor if you are not sure.

Where do I find my WebCT class?
The Peninsula College WebCT homepage is:
http://pconline.ctc.edu:8900/webct/public/home.pl
Select Log on to myWebCT.

I can't log in to my class. What do I do?
First, do not panic! Here are some tips that might help you:

• Make sure your Caps Lock key is not engaged.
• Your username and password should be typed without spaces, in lower case.
• Your username (WebCT ID) is your student id number issued by Peninsula College and begining with 895. An example is: 895000000.
• Make sure you used no spaces or dashes when typing in your username.
• Your password is webct, typed without spaces, in lower case. It is recommended that you change it after you log in the first time.
• Try closing your browser and launch it again.
• If closing your browser does not work, restart your computer and start over.
• If all else fails, call technical assistance at: 360-417-6272. Be sure to state your full name, the class number, the class instructor, your email address, and telephone number.

Is my computer able to handle WebCT classes?
The minimum system requirements for using WebCT are the following:

PC Platform:

• Windows 95 or higher
• CPU (Chip): Pentium II or higher 233 MHz
• Memory: 32 MB of RAM
• Browser: I.E. 5.x, Netscape 4.5
• Sound Card

MAC Platform:

• OS 8.6 or higher
• CPU: Motorola 68040 (Power PC recommended)
• Memory: 32 MB of RAM
• Browser: I.E. 5.x, Netscape 4.x

A system with these minimum requirements will be able to access WebCT, but classes that include multimedia components and third-party software may require higher standards.

If your computer at home does not meet the minimum requirements, there are alternative locations for accessing the Web. Computer labs on the Port Angeles campus and the extension sites in Port Townsend and Forks, public libraries, or cybercafes can be an alternative place to access the Internet.

What should I do if I am having problems accessing WebCT from my computer at work?
Find out if your workplace has a firewall on the network. If so, you may have some problems working in WebCT. Contact your company’s information technology support department and discuss the issue with them. Make sure you have any problems solved before you take the class if you plan to access it from work.

How do I logout of WebCT?
Click the log out button located near the top of the screen or close your browser. Your WebCT session remains active until you log out or end your browser session. This means if you are in your class and then decide to surf the web without closing your browser, you are still logged in to the class.

Is there any specific time I have to work on my online class?
One of the advantages of online instruction is flexibility. You can work in your online class at your leisure. However, an online class does follow a schedule and requires assignments on specific dates, tests, etc., just like a traditional class. Make sure you are familiar with the class syllabus or calendar to know when assignments are due.

An exception to this might occur if the instructor requires synchronous communication (chat). In this case you will be notified of the date and time of the chat. Another exception may occur if an instructor requires a proctored test.

Any other questions?
If you have questions regarding WebCT at Peninsula College, please contact your instructor.