Online classes are for you if these statements are true:
- You have a computer with a high speed connection.
You will need access to a computer with either a cable or DSL connection to be successful in our online courses.
- You send a lot of time on your computer at home.
Your online course will require you to devote a lot of time to working on the computer. You should feel comfortable doing tasks like reading and writing e-mails; surfing the internet; using software like Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, or another word-processing program; downloading, saving, and opening files; and completing other basic computer functions.
- You enjoy reading and having good reading skills.
Since you will be learning remotely, you will be required to read most of your class materials instead of listening to a professor lecture. On top of that, most communication with teachers and students will be through writing and documents. If you do not feel comfortable in your reading skills, you may be bogged down with class assignments.
- You have good writing skills and can effectively communicate your ideas in writing.
It is important that an online student maintain proper grammar and spelling throughout the online class because the main form of communication is writing. Most online instructors expect their students to use proper grammar in order to receive a full letter grade on written assignments. Short-hand language like 'lol' or 'g2g,' improper use of caps lock, poor spelling, and emoticons will not work in the online college environment.
In addition to proper grammar, online readers must also be able to effectively articulate their thoughts in writing. You will need to complete assignments, participate in discussions and group projects online. Your ability to communicate accurately and effectively in writing is crucial to your success.
- You enjoy video or other multimedia (YouTube, streaming radio, podcasts, etc.).
Your instructor may ask you to watch a video, listen to an audio file, or explore some other form of online media to supplement their online course. You should be able to handle interacting with the buttons, changing the volume, etc. You may also participate in the production of a multimedia project.
- You are comfortable getting information online from discussion forums, blogs and other internet sources.
Your instructor may start a discussion forum for the class and ask that you participate in posting content. You may also be required to do research on your own. You should be able to use internet search engines like Google or Yahoo! to find what others have published on a certain topic in blogs, wikis, or forums.
- You are more comfortable communicating through email than face to face.
Some people feel that they communicate better through e-mail than face-to-face. The time delay in online discussions will give you a moment to reflect on what you want to say before you post it. However, remember that your meaning can be taken out of context without your voice inflections and body expressions to supplement your words.
- You would rather have written directions than oral directions.
Most of your class instructions will be written in some form, and you will need understand and apply these instructions on your own. You are always welcome to contact the instructor, but there could be a delay in response.
- You prefer learning new ideas and concepts through reading, rather than "hands on" learning.
Part of the appeal of online learning is the freedom to work at your own pace and explore new ideas. Those who do the best at online learning are self-motivated, and usually research new ideas and concepts on their own time as opposed to having someone walk them through.
- You are self motivated to study regularly even without a traditional class schedule.
Since you are not required to show up for class like in a traditional school setting, it is on you to make sure you get your work done on time. You should be able to set aside time everyday to devote your attention to your online courses so that you do not fall behind in your work.