Do students have regular contact with their professors?

Yes. Students in all TESOL programs are in regular contact with their professors in the Online Discussion Forum. In addition, students in the Ed.D., MA and Graduate Diploma in TESOL programs communicate with their professors in an online face-to-face setting through the real-time online webcam classes.

May I contact my professor by e-mail?

Yes. The professor's e-mail address is typically listed in the online course guide.

Do I have regular contact with other students in my course?

Yes. Through the University's Online Discussion Forum, students communicate regularly with all other students enrolled in the same course. Each week, a student is nominated as "Student Host." It is the Student Host's responsibility to encourage students to participate and to keep discussions going by presenting topics for discussion. This Student Host system in conjunction with the real-time online webcam classes has proven to be so effective, it is said that AU students have more contact with their professors and fellow students than most students do in on-campus programs! To further enhance this communication, AU students have the option of having their e-mail address connected to the Forum discussions allowing 24-7 access to conversations from students and professors from around the world.

Is there any support for students who do not have access to major libraries?

Yes. The AU online library offers students 24-hour access to a vast collection of publications and other printed resources available in digital format for their research. LIRN was developed by a team of professionals who have evaluated thousands of Internet resources to identify and annotate only those deemed useful to students doing academic or professional research on the Web. The LIRN offers academically appropriate, Internet-based resources. Each resource is updated regularly to ensure quality, accuracy, and currency.

How can I purchase textbooks?

AU students may order textbooks through the Anaheim University Online Bookstore. The Online Bookstore provides a competitive and reliable textbook service that ensures receipt of the correct textbook in a timely manner. Purchases will be subject to the refund policy of the bookstore.

Is there an alumni association?

Yes. AU's Alumni Association for lifelong learning is more than just a membership. As graduates of AU, students are automatically enrolled in a learning process that will extend beyond their degree. The University fully subscribes to the principle that "learning never ends." One of the great advantages of the online university is that students can maintain contact with the University, the faculty and fellow classmates throughout their lifetime. The Alumni Association will send students up-to-date information on new developments, suggested readings, cutting-edge information, occupational trends, and professional career opportunities.

How can I learn about upcoming events in my field of study?

Students wishing to read or post announcements about upcoming events, seminars, fairs, conventions, etc. or other subjects of academic interest to students in their major or to all AU students may do so through the AU Online Discussion Forum.

Is it possible to publish my research through Anaheim University?

Yes. The Anaheim University Press is an online innovation that provides opportunities for faculty and students to individually or collectively publish articles and research reports that will be made available for global interest. In addition to these online services, graduate theses and projects may be published, furthering the work of research in the fields of study represented by the University's programs.

What are the Research Portfolio and Thesis for the Master of Arts (MA) in TESOL, and what guidance, if any, do I get preparing it?

Students will have a choice of culminating their program with either a thesis option or a research portfolio option. A number of courses in the MA TESOL provide students with an opportunity to conduct a small scale research project and write a report. For the EDU 600 Research Portfolio course, students will be required to submit reports of TWO such studies. Students will need to revise the reports in the light of the feedback that they received on their original reports. As with all of our courses, a professor is assigned to EDU 600 to instruct students and offer academic guidance and support.

The thesis option provides students with an opportunity to identify an issue or problem arising out of their prior coursework or their own professional experience. They can then design and carry out an original piece of empirical research, and present the results in a substantial piece of writing

Is there a graduation ceremony

Yes. The University holds graduation ceremonies from time to time and although it is not mandatory all students are welcome to take part.

What is the Dissertation for the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in TESOL, and what guidance, if any, do I get preparing it?

The Dissertation is the culminating component of the EdD. The dissertation should report an original piece of research and make a significant contribution to the field of TESOL. Students will select and work with a Dissertation Committee to write a draft research proposal, and they will keep in regular contact with the Dissertation Committee members to discuss issues and to present draft chapters. Anaheim University will schedule an oral defence of the dissertation, which will be conducted in an online classroom and will normally last between one and two hours