ROBOTICS TECHNICIAN DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAM

SELF-PACED, SKILLS BASED TRAINING IN ROBOTICS

WHEN YOU WANT, WHERE YOU WANT, AND AT YOUR OWN PACE.

Program Quick Feature List:

• Fully accredited
• Continuous enrolment
• Pay-as-you-learn registration
• Hands-on lab experience through
software simulation
• 1-800 technical and tutorial support
• Online student support forum

News at Onlinerobotics.com
The program includes the state-of-
the-art robotics simulation software
RoboLogix, designed to emulate
real-world robotics applications.
With RoboLogix, you create, test, run,
and de-bug programs that you have
written yourself, using a five-axis
industrial robot in a wide range of
practical applications.

Ask Us about Tuition Support with Pay-As-You-Learn Registration

Speak to a Program Advisor Today

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The Robotics Technician “The job market for robotics technicians will continue to grow as

Certificate Program companies automate their manufacturing systems to increase their

competitive advantage in today’s tough business environment.
The Robotics (RT) Technician program provides an introduction Entering our program, students can get the training they need,
to industrial robotics and explains how they are used in plants on their own terms, and be well prepared and positioned to
or manufacturing systems. The primary focus of the program is move into new jobs in this exciting area of technology.”
on automated manufacturing processes, the role of robots
within thoses processes and all related support equipment. Colin Simpson
Dean of Continuing Education
George Brown College

THE ROBOTICS TECHNICIAN PROGRAM

CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING MODULES:
1. Introduction to Robotics
2. Robot Classifications
3. Manipulators and End Effectors
4. Robot Drive Systems
5. Servo Systems
6. Payload, Repeatability & Accuracy
7. Object Detection
8. Vision, Touch & Sound
The program contains a wide variety of content including text, audio, 3D animations, 9. Robot Programming
images and lab projects. 10. Robot Safety
11. Communications
12. Applications
The material for the program is delivered and supported by a
combination of program disk, textbook and online resources. 13. Artificial Intelligence
The curriculum uses text, video, 2D and 3D animations, photos,
audio clips and interactive robotics simulations. The program is
divided into 13 modules, each consisting of about 10 sections or
major topics. Interactive exercises and online support prepare
you for computer-based exams. The average completion time is
28 weeks of part-time study.

Each of the 13 modules includes leaning objectives, practical applications, technical

tips, interactive labs and review questions.

For a detailed description of the module contents go to

www.onlinerobotics.com/modules.html

Animated examples are used throughout the program to better communicate

robotics theory and application.
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Learning Robotics with
Laboratory Simulations
One of the main learning features of the Robotics technical
program is the complete integration of laboratory experiments
and projects within the presentation of the Robotics theory.
The simulation software, RoboLogix, converts your computer
into a simulated industrial robot, complete with 3D learning
environments for example robotic manufacturing production
and control systems. You can run the simulator to test and
visually examine the execution of robot programs and control
algorithms, while plotting instantaneous joint accelerations,
velocities and positions. RoboLogix is used to provide programming examples and an experimental simulation
environment in which students can build and test their programs.

ROBOLOGIX SIMULATION
RoboLogix introduces the concepts of multi-axes robots and
demonstrates how they can be used in a plant or manufacturing
THE ROBOLOGIX SIMULATOR INCLUDES:
system in various 3D simulation environments. Users gain practical, • Automatic interference checks and collision detection
“hands on” programming of an industrial robot through a com- • Full trajectory trace of Tool Center Point (TCP)
bination of teach-pendant programming and 3D simulation • Management of virtual cameras
environments. These environments include conveyor/palletizing, • Inclusion of signals from virtual sensors
pick and place, spray painting and welding. • Dynamic performance analysis
• Cycle time analysis
• User-friendly 3D interface allows for “real-world”
simulation
• Test and de-bug programs in a safe, non-hazardous
environment
• Perform accurate robot simulations to verify reach,
cycle time, through-put, etc.
• Design or edit robotic programs without tying up
programming time on an actual robot
• Compare robotic programs in order to optimize
cycle times
• Enter, modify and retrieve programs using a simulated
teach pendant
• ‘Program Descriptors’ allow you to write and store
additional documentation for your programs
• Environments include conveyor/palletizing, pick and
place, as well as spray painting & welding applications
• Easy to learn instruction set combined with logical
operations & registers make programming simple
& intuitive
The RoboLogix programming environment provides a very
realistic simulation of control systems using robotic equipment.
The ability to preview the behavior of a robotic system in a
“virtual” world allows for a variety of mechanisms, devices,
configurations and controllers to be tried and tested by students
before being exposed to “real world” systems. RoboLogix
receives control signals, determines if contact or collision
between objects in the system has occurred, and returns
simulated sensor information as feedback. This system has the
capacity of real-time simulation of the motion of an industrial
For detailed information about the RoboLogix simulator
robot through 3D animation. The principles of 3D motion that is included with the Robotics program go to
simulation and both geometry modeling and kinematics www.robologix.com/index.php
modeling are presented in the RoboLogix virtual environment.

Register at www.onlinerobotics.com
Robotics Technician Program THE STUDENT SUPPORT CENTER
The GBC Student Support Center is open Monday through
Student Support Friday from 9:00 am until 10:00 pm (EST). Calling into the
Support Center is free using our 1-800 long distance number.
To fully support your distance education learning experience
Technical, tutorial and
in our program, George Brown College (GBC) provides a
administrative support is
comprehensive student support system to give our students
available to you by phone or
every opportunity to get technical, tutorial or administrative
email during these hours. Our
help, when and how you need it.
Program Advisors and Tutorial
Support Staff can assist you
THE COMPUTER-BASED CURRICULUM AND with any questions you might
have, from installing the
ROBOTICS TEXTBOOK program disk, to solving
Many students benefit greatly content-based tutorial
from ready access to a reference questions, to helping you
textbook as they work through register for more modules.
the content of our computer-
based program. The course
content on the program disk
is very closely matched by the
content in our supplementary
Robotics textbook. The text-
book is not a required reference.
We make it available for those
students who find a benefit in
having access to this more
traditional style of presentation
A supplemental Robotics textbook
of the program content. is available to provide additional
learning support.
EXAMS
Being tested is always a stressful and challenging part of your
student experience. To help you prepare for testing, our program
disk includes exercises and review questions. If you complete
these and work with our program tutors to resolve any problem
areas, you will be well prepared to excel in exams at the end of
each module.
ONLINE RESOURCES
The sensory system modules of a robotic vision system
perform the following functions: Our online student support website provides a wide range
of resources including access to your “Account”, online forums,
testing, videos, images and additional supplemental learning
material.
Predict the information the sensors will detect.
The Robotics discussion forum provides our students with an
Analyze the sensor data to produce features.
online community in which to meet other students within
the Robotics program and to discuss topics of mutual interest.
Match the sensor data with models. It also is where students access our online Robotics program
tutor and a library of tutorial questions and material.
Continuously update the model of the world.

All of the above.

Call 1-888-553-5333 to speak to a Program Advisor Today

George Brown College

FOR MORE Centre for Continuous Learning
INFORMATION 160 Kendal Street, C420
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 2T9
PLEASE CONTACT 1-888-553-5333
US AT : info@gbctechtraining.com
ROBOTICS TECHNICIAN
DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAM

DETAILED PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Self-paced, flexible
computer-based
training in robotics.

Call Toll-free: 1-888-553-5333 · www.onlinerobotics.com

ROBOTICS TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Robotics 8. Vision, Touch & Sound
2. Robot Classifications 9. Robot Programming
3. Manipulators and End Effectors 10. Robot Safety
4. Robot Drive Systems 11. Communications
5. Servo Systems 12. Applications
6. Payload, Repeatability & Accuracy 13. Artificial Intelligence
7. Object Detection

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 We bring the classroom to you

Module 1 – INTRODUCTION TO ROBOTICS

This module is designed to introduce the student to the fundamental concepts of robotics and describe some basic applications.
This module covers operating principles of a manipulator and describes four types of actuators found in industry. The history of
robotics is presented, as well as an overview of the main applications for industrial robots. The advantages of robots are also
outlined, and the main components associated with robotic systems are explored. An introduction to robot cost/benefit analysis is
presented and the most common non-industrial applications of robots are explored.
Learning Objectives: • Name the two types of robot arms
• List the main components of a robot • List five non-industrial applications of robots
• Describe the operating principles of a manipulator • Explain the purpose of a controller in a robotic system
• Identify four types of actuators • Describe two cost/benefit analysis factors related to production volumes
• Explain the role of Devol and Engelberger in robotics history • Identify seven factors which should be considered when selecting
• Define the terms ROV and TROV a robot

Module 2 – ROBOT CLASSIFICATIONS

This module introduces students to the fundamentals of robot environments and control systems. In addition, the module introduces
essential concepts such as adaptive control and dynamic control and describes the various classifications of robot movement. The
module also covers servo and non-servo systems as well as an introduction to drive systems. The principles of line tracking robots
and their control characteristics are provided, emphasizing practical applications and troubleshooting techniques. Theoretical areas
of study include point-to-point control and continuous path robot applications.
Learning Outcomes: • Differentiate between servo and non-servo control systems
• Explain the process for selecting a robot • Define point-to-point control
• Define the domain of operation of a robot • Describe three characteristics of a continuous path robot
• Identify six environments a robot can operate in • Name the two most popular types of drive systems used in
• List an industrial robot’s three most important subsystems industrial robots
• Describe the differences between adaptive control and • Explain the purpose of line tracking in robotic applications
limited dynamic control • Determine tool length using a tool center point (TCP)
• Name the four classifications of movement of a robot • List two advantages of distributed robots

Module 3 – MANIPULATORS AND END EFFECTORS

This module is designed to cover the fundamentals of manipulators, links, and joints. A discussion of kinematics and haptic
technology is presented, as well as dextrous manipulation, and an overview of the basic coordinate systems for a robot
manipulator. The theoretical and practical aspects of manipulators and spatial analysis are introduced in this module using a
combination of video, animation, and a laboratory projects featuring Robotics simulation software.
Learning Outcomes: • List the four general categories of robotic manipulation
• Name the most common type of manipulator • Differentiate between velocity manipulability and velocity
• Differentiate between robot links and joints workspace analysis
• Define major axes and minor axes • Describe the function of dexterous manipulation
• Explain the purpose of kinematics in robotic systems • Name the three basic co-ordinate systems for a robot manipulator
• Describe screw theory in kinematic applications • Explain the operation of a gantry robot
• Name the three types of revolute joints • List six end effectors used in industrial robotics
• Define haptic technology • Determine the shape of a work envelope
1
Module 4 – ROBOT DRIVE SYSTEMS
This module covers work, energy, power and torque, and presents an introduction to gears, linkages and direct drive systems.
The student will learn the principles of electric drives and fluid power and their application in industrial robotic systems. Hydraulic
and pneumatic drives are also presented with an emphasis on practical applications and troubleshooting. In addition, this module
also covers the basics of gears in power transmission and presents an overview of direct drive systems and drive system efficiency.
Learning Outcomes: • Name three types of fluid power actuators
• Name the three basic robot drive systems • Compare the advantages of hydraulic and fluid power drives
• Differentiate between direct and indirect drives • Explain the purpose of a hydraulic rotary actuator
• Define kinetic energy and potential energy • Describe the operation of a pneumatic diaphragm control valve
• List five advantages of electrical drive systems • List four purposes of gears in power transmission
• Describe the two most common types of electric motor drives • State Grashof’s law
• Identify the five components in a fluid power system • Determine the efficiency of a drive system

Module 5 – SERVO SYSTEMS

This module will provide the student with an introduction to block diagrams and the application of open-loop and closed-loop
control systems in industrial robotics. The main sections of a controller are described, as well as the categories, components, and
advantages of various control systems. The module is designed to demonstrate the principles of PID control and describe how
algorithms and flowcharts can be applied to design, problem-solving and troubleshooting techniques. In addition, the module also
introduces students to the concept of fuzzy logic and fuzzy control.
Learning Outcomes:
• Define the term servomechanism • List the two general categories of control systems
• List five criteria for classification as a servo system • Identify the five components of a closed-loop control system
• Explain the purpose of block diagrams in servo systems • Define the four variables associated with closed-loop control
• Differentiate between transfer function and gain in a control system • Describe the three components of PID control
• Draw the symbol for a summing point • List four qualities of an ideal servo amplifier
• Determine the error signal based on the setpoint and measured value • Explain the purpose of algorithms and flowcharts in servo systems
• Describe the two main sections of a controller in a servo system • Define the term fuzzy logic

Module 6 – PAYLOAD, REPEATABILITY & ACCURACY

This module covers payload, accuracy, repeatability and resolution in modern industrial robotics. The student will learn to apply compliance
parameters to determine overall performance and explain the various factors affecting the accuracy of a robot. The module also
covers position error and describes common calibration techniques used in robot installation and maintenance. In addition to the
basics of kinematic coupling, the module also presents standard performance characteristics noted in ISO9283. The principles of
spatial resolution and compliance are discussed with an emphasis on practical applications and troubleshooting techniques.
Learning Outcomes: • Describe the four sources of position error
• Name the four characteristics of precision robot movement • Calculate robot accuracy based on BRU and mechanical accuracy
• Define the term spatial resolution • Explain how compliance affects maximum payload
• Differentiate between repeatability and accuracy • List 10 performance characteristics identified in ISO9283
• List the three factors affecting the accuracy of a robot • Define robot calibration
• Determine the maximum payload of a robot • Discuss the advantages of kinematic coupling

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 We bring the classroom to you

Module 7 – OBJECT DETECTION

This module includes the study of both analog and digital sensors, including mechanical switches, temperature sensors, proximity
detectors, strain gages and photoelectric sensors. Displacement, pressure, and flow transducers are presented with an emphasis
on practical applications and safe operation of these devices. This module also covers encoders and resolvers, as well as Hall effect
devices and capacitive and ultrasonic sensors. An introduction to object identification is presented using practical and theoretical
examples of industrial applications of this technology.
Learning Outcomes:
• Describe the goal of a robot sensory system • List four types of proximity sensors
• Differentiate between a sensor and an actuator • Determine the flow rate of a fluid
• List three applications for force/torque sensors • Differentiate between pressure and flow transducers
• Identify seven types of mechanical switches • Calculate the gage factor of a strain gage transducer
• Describe five parameters measured with transducers • Name two types of photoelectric devices
• Explain the principle of the Seeback effect • Compare resolvers and encoders

Module 8 – VISION, TOUCH & SOUND

In this module the student learns the principles of robotic vision systems including cameras, frame grabbers and vision algorithms.
3D vision, photogrammetry and tactile sensing are covered with an emphasis on practical application and design. An introduction to
robot inspection and speech recognition is also presented in this module. In addition, this module also provides an overview of CCD
and CMOS cameras and describes their application in industrial robotics. The student will learn design techniques and the principles
of F/T sensing as well as the most common characteristics of touch sensors.
Learning Outcomes:
• Explain the purpose of a robot pose • Calculate the field of view for a vision system
• Name the two most important sensors for a robot • Discuss the purpose of a frame grabber in a vision system
• List five functions performed by vision and touch sensors • List the three basic techniques used for 3D vision
• Explain the three steps required for a vision system to process data • Define the term slip sensing
• Describe the two levels of world modeling • Differentiate between touch sensing and F/T sensing
• Define the term photogrammetry • Name six desirable characteristics of touch sensors
• Compare CCD and CMOS cameras • Define robot audition

Module 9 – ROBOT PROGRAMMING

This module provides an introduction to robot software, programming languages, and various programming techniques associated
with industrial robots. On-line and off-line programming, teach pendants and automatic programming are presented using a
combination of theoretical and laboratory exercises utilizing robotics simulation software. In addition, this module also introduces
the student to web-based programming and open architecture programming and provides coverage of some of the major robot
programming languages and techniques, including Microsoft Robotics Studio.
Learning Outcomes: • Identify five types of motion instructions
• Explain the purpose of a layered system for robot programming • Describe the most popular type of robot programming language
• Name the two major categories of robot programming • Explain how program touch-up is used when programming
• List five criteria for standardized programming languages • List two types of simulation used in industry
• Define software architecture • Compare keyframing and skeletal animation in 3D modeling
• Differentiate between manual and automatic programming • Discuss the benefits of open-architecture programming
• Name three types of non-proprietary robot languages • Name four characteristics of DSSP in Microsoft Robotics Studio

3
Module 10 – ROBOT SAFETY
This module will focus on the principles of robot safety and the various types of safety equipment used in industrial robotics
applications. The student will learn the fundamentals of hazard analysis and safety-related control systems. In addition,
comprehensive coverage of common robot accidents is presented as well as techniques for safe installation, maintenance, and
operation of robots in a variety of industrial settings. This module also explores standard preventive maintenance techniques and
the use of diagnostic systems in industrial robots.
Learning Outcomes: • Define hard guards and discuss their purpose in a robot work envelope
• Define the term robot safety • Determine the standard height of perimeter guards
• List eight types of potential malfunctions in a robotics system • Differentiate between safety mats and mat controllers
• Explain the three levels of hazard areas • Name three factors to consider in controlling robot hazards
• Identify seven considerations for robot installations • Identify the primary cause of industrial robot accidents
• Describe the purpose of an intrinsic fail safe system • Describe three benefits of applying preventative maintenance
• Name five types of safeguarding devices • Explain the purpose of diagnostic systems in robots

Module 11 – COMMUNICATIONS
This module introduces the student to the fundamentals of Local Area Networks, protocol and topology. In addition to transmission
media, the module also covers classifications of communication systems and an overview of the 7-layer OSI model. The principles of
token passing, CSMA/CD and ethernet are presented emphasizing practical applications and troubleshooting techniques. Theoretical
areas of study include Controller Area Networks, network switching and WLANS. The student will also learn the differences between
star, bus, and ring topology and their applications in industry. Emphasis is placed on design, problem solving and analysis of
industrial communication systems.

Learning Outcomes:
• Define the term data communication • Compare ring, star, and bus topology
• List the three main types of knowledge that influence decision-making • Name one disadvantage of ring topology
• Explain the purpose of a local area network • Determine messaging times based on sample period and traffic
• Name three types of communications cables used by LANs • Describe the two basic modes of WLANs
• Describe the principle of network protocol • Name three common communication methods
• Differentiate between token passing and CSMA/CD • Define the seven layers of the OSI communications model
• Calculate token circulation times in a LAN • Explain the purpose of Ethernet in robotics communications

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 We bring the classroom to you

Module 12 – APPLICATIONS
This module will provide the student with an overview of robot uses, with an emphasis on the most common functions. It includes
applications such as welding, palletizing, assembly, injection molding and spray painting. In addition, the module also includes
specialized robotic applications such as surgical and inspection robots. Integration of 3D animation and robot simulation software
enables the student to gain a better understanding of “real world” environments. This module also covers a variety of welding
processes including MIG and TIG and contains an introduction to specialized end effectors such as welding and spray guns. An
overview of mobile robots is also presented.
Learning Outcomes:
• Describe the most common application for industrial robots • Identify the three most common functions performed by inspection robots
• List eight applications for industrial robots • Differentiate between robot handling and assembly
• Name the two most common types of welding robots • Name two advantages of using grinding robots
• Explain the principle of operation of a C-type welding gun • Define the term palletizing
• Compare GMAW and GTAW welding processes • Explain the purpose of robots in the healthcare industry
• Describe the two main types of painting robots • Describe the basic operating principle of AGVs

Module 13 – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

This module covers the principles of artificial intelligence (AI) and introduces the student to the concept of machine learning and
knowledge. In addition to Conventional AI, the module also provides an overview of evolutionary computation and computational
intelligence. Applications of robots using Neuro-fuzzy systems are presented with an emphasis on fundamentals of fuzzy logic and
problem solving. The types of reasoning systems covered in this module include both deductive and inductive. Feedforward and
recurrent networks are included in the module as well as an introduction to Natural Language Processing.

Learning Outcomes:
• Define the term artificial intelligence • Differentiate between deductive and inductive reasoning
• Name the two types of knowledge utilized by an AI system • Describe the purpose of evolutionary algorithms
• Explain the purpose of logical rules of inference • List the five main classifications of agents
• Describe how expert systems are used in AI applications • Compare feedforward networks with recurrent networks
• List the four parameters of case-based reasoning • Explain the purpose of natural language processing (NLP)
• Define machine learning and how it applies to AI • Name two types of AI robots

5
George Brown College offers programs that can be completed entirely through a distance learning approach including the Electronics
Technician, Electromechanical Technician and the Programmable Logic Controllers Technician.

Electronics Technician Certificate Program

The Electronics Technician Certificate program provides flexible, skills based
training in electronics fundamentals. It has been developed for adult
learners pursuing basic technician level training through independent study.
The program consists of 23 modules of interactive curriculum using text,
video, audio, 2D and 3D animations and laboratory simulation software.
The program covers an introductory curriculum in electronics equivalent
to a two year college diploma. This computer-based multimedia program
includes pre-tests, interactive exercises, sample exams and online technical
and tutorial support to help prepare you for online computer-based exams.

Electromechanical Training Certificate Program

The Electromechanical Technician Certificate program provides a basic
introduction to electronics and electromechanical systems for individuals
working in industries using traditional manufacturing methods and automated
systems. The computer-based multimedia program presents twenty-four modules
of interactive curriculum using text, video, 2D and 3D animations, photos,
audio clips and interactive lab simulations. Pre-tests, interactive exercises,
sample exams, and online support prepare you for online final exams.

Programmable Logic Controllers Technician

Certificate Program
The Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) Technician Certificate provides
an introduction to PLCs, their component parts, programming and practical
applications including advanced programming languages and robotics. The
computer-based multimedia program presents nineteen modules of interactive
curriculum using text, video, 2D and 3D animations, photos, audio clips and
interactive PLC simulations. Pre-tests, interactive exercises, sample exams,
and online support prepare you for computer-based exams.

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 TECHNICAL DISTANCE EDUCATION
PROGRAMS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This fact sheet presents some of the more commonly

asked questions about the Electronics, Electromechanical,
Programmable Logic Controllers and Robotics programs at
George Brown College.

Q1: What do the programs cost and what payment options are available?

A: The total cost of the Electronics Technician Certificate Program is $1665. There are
two payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1665

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $345 (includes all learning materials, laboratory
simulation software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 22
modules is $60/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time.

The total cost of the Electromechanical Technician Certificate Program is $1725. There
are two payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1725

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $345 (all learning materials, laboratory simulation
software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 23 modules is
$60/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time.

The total cost of the Programmable Logic Controllers Technician Certificate Program is
$1700. There are two payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1700

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $440 (all learning materials, laboratory simulation
software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 18 modules is
$70/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time.

The total cost of the Robotics Technician Certificate Program is $1570. There are two
payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1570

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 1
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $490 (all learning materials, laboratory simulation
software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 12 modules is
$90/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time

Q2: Are the Electronics, Electromechanical, PLC and Robotics Technician training
programs accredited?

A: Yes our programs are accredited. George Brown College is a fully-accredited post-
secondary institution operating under the authority of the Ministry of Colleges and
Universities in the Province of Ontario. The College received its Charter in 1967 and operates
four campuses in Toronto, Canada with over 12,000 full-time and 60,000 part-time students.
All certificates, diplomas, and degrees conferred by George Brown College are done so under
the power vested in its Board of Governors through the Government of Ontario. George
Brown College is a member of the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC)
which is a national organization consisting of over 200 post-secondary institutions.

Q3: Are there prerequisites for these programs?

A: Students entering these programs should have a high school diploma with credits at, or
above, the general level or hold an equivalent mature student status. An electronics
background is helpful but not essential.

Q4: Do the programs have a specific start and end date?

A: No, the Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable Logic Controllers and Robotics

programs are open enrollment programs with no predetermined time limits. That means you
can start at your convenience and finish at your own pace.

Q5: How long does it take to complete each Certificate program?

A: The average completion time is between 30-34 weeks of part-time study. The flexible
computer-based modules are designed to fit into your schedule, not ours, so you can work at
your own pace to complete the programs.

Q6: Are there exams and how are they written?

A: Yes, there are exams. The exams are written online using a computer-based testing
package. A timed, 90 minute exam is taken to complete each module of the program.

Q7: What is the passing grade for the Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable
Logic Controllers and Robotics Certificate programs?

A: You must obtain a 60% or higher to successfully complete each module of each program.

Q8: Do I ever have to physically attend the college?

A: No, these programs are offered entirely by distance education.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 2
Q9: What’s included in the Interactive Learning Package?

A: The Interactive Learning Package includes

• CD-ROM or DVD based curriculum

• Lab simulation software
• Tutorial and Technical Support
• Access to additional online program resources
• Online Testing

Q10: What kind of technical and tutorial support is offered?

A: While enrolled in the any of these programs, students receive technical and tutorial
support from the program’s Technical Training Distance Learning Student Support Center.
The Student Support Center is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am until 10:00 pm
(Eastern Standard Time) and can be contacted by email at info@gbctechtraining.com.

Q11: How can I use these programs to obtain a diploma or degree?

A: Graduates of the certificate programs can continue their studies to obtain a diploma or
degree through the following options;

Electronics Engineering Technician Diploma at George Brown College

Graduates of our Electronics Certificate program apply the credits earned from our program
directly towards a diploma. Seven more credits, including four general education courses and
three communications courses, must be taken to complete the fully accredited Electronics
Engineering Technician Diploma.

Bachelor of Science offered through Athabasca University (AU) and George Brown College
Graduates of the Electronics Technician Certificate can transfer into the second year of
studies and continue to earn a 4-year Bachelor of Science degree.

Bachelor of Science, Technology Management Degree offered through Indiana State

University and George Brown College
Students who have completed the Electronics Technician Certificate (plus 7 General
Education courses) through George Brown College, can directly transfer into the third year of
studies at Indiana State University and continue on to complete a 4 year Bachelor of Science
degree.

Q12: How do you obtain hands-on-experience with these programs?

A: All of our programs use state-of-the-art simulators that act as real world tools. With the
Electronics and Electromechanical simulators you also can design test and debug analog,
digital and mixed mode circuits. With the PLC simulator you can write and run real PLC
programs and verify their operation. Robologix, the Robotics simulator, allows for the
programming, testing, and debugging of robot-control programs.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 3
Q13: Do these programs have industry recognition?

A: The Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable Logic Controllers and Robotics

Certificate programs were created in direct response to requests from industry. The programs
were developed to meet the emerging requirements of industry and to provide the highest
quality education and relevant training to students.

Q14: What computer hardware and software is needed to complete these programs?

A: Students must have access to a personal computer with the following minimum
configuration;

• CD-ROM or DVD Drive & Sound Card

• Intel Pentium or equivalent
• 32 MB RAM (64 MB recommended)
• 100 MB available disk space
• Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP/ME/Vista/Windows 7
• Internet Access
• Email account

Q15: What is the Honor System Policy?

A: Once enrolled in the Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable Logic Controllers or

Robotics programs, you are responsible for obeying and supporting an honor system that
prohibits lying, cheating, or stealing in relation to the academic practices of George Brown
College. The honor system also requires you to refrain from conduct that
significantly impairs the welfare or the educational opportunities of others in the George
Brown College community. You are expected to do your own work in all aspects of your
course.

Q16: What is the withdraw, drop and refund policy for these programs?

A: To receive a tuition refund, a student must provide the Distance Education Support
Services Center with a written Request to Withdraw letter no later than ten business days
after receiving the program materials. There will be a $20 administration fee charged, per
module, to process the refund.

Please note that there is no refund on the Interactive Learning Package (CD-ROM & DVD).
Please note that the textbooks cannot be returned for a refund.

Allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing and mail delivery of tuition refund checks. If you do
not receive your tuition refund check within 6 weeks of submitting your Request to
Withdraw letter please contact the Distance Education Support Services Center toll-free at
1-888-553-5333.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 4
Please include the following information in your Request to Withdraw letter:
Please include the following information in your Request to Withdraw letter:
1. Name
1.
2. Name
Student Number
2.
3. Student Number
Course Registration Number
3. Course Registration
4. Reason for withdrawalNumber
4.
5. Reason for withdrawal
Signature
5. Signature

A Request to Withdraw refund letter should be faxed to the Distance Education Support
A Request
Services to Withdraw
Center at (416)refund letter
415-4683 orshould
mailedbe
to faxed
Georgeto Brown
the Distance Education
College, DistanceSupport
Education
Services
Support Services Center, PO Box 1015 Station B, Toronto, Ontario Canada, M5TEducation
Center at (416) 415-4683 or mailed to George Brown College, Distance 2T9.
Support Services Center, PO Box 1015 Station B, Toronto, Ontario Canada, M5T 2T9.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 5
George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 5