Is Online Learning Right for Me?
Who should take online or distance learning courses?
Online courses are designed for highly motivated students who cannot or do not
want to come to campus because of their work schedules, family needs, or other
reasons. Distance learning students can control their own schedules by
working with the course materials at their convenience. However, the
courses are not strictly self-paced; courses begin and end on the same schedule
as regular on-campus courses and assignments and exams are due on specific days.
Not sure if you are ready for
online learning?
Take the READI assessment
READI is a
quick interactive survey that will help you understand your strengths and
weaknesses related to online learning.
Qualities of a successful online student
Learning online is an adventure. Several qualities contribute to success
as an online student. Successful students:
- are self-motivated and self-disciplined
- stay on task without direct supervision
- like to figure things out without direct assistance
- prioritize workload effectively
- can successfully work alone
- are good at assessing their own progress
- like working with computers and software programs
- enjoy the challenge of working with new technology
- can commit 9-12 hours per week per three-credit class
- are good at following instructions
- use email and can create messages with attached files
- can download and install programs from the Internet
- can search the Web
- can copy and paste from one program to another
- rarely procrastinate
- enjoy communicating in writing and reading the writing of others
- work with others to complete projects
- seek assistance when problems arise
- take an active role in the learning process
Do not disregard the importance of the qualities listed above; they will
determine your success.
