Is Online Learning Right for You?

An online course is a class that is taken primarily over the Internet. Students read materials on the net or in their textbook. Class discussion is via discussion boards, online forums, chat rooms, or email. Assignments are usually submitted via the Blackboard or email. Some online courses require the student to come to campus for face-to-face meetings or proctored exams.

Do you have reliable access to a computer and Internet?
Do you know how to send and receive email messages?
Do you stay on task without direct supervision?
Do you know how to attach a file to an email message?
Can you prioritize your workload?
Can you learn from limited instruction (reading and completing assignments)?
Do you access your email account on a daily basis?
Can you easily understand and follow written instructions?
Can you allocate 10-15 hours a week for your online course?
Are you comfortable assessing your own progress?

If you answered NO to any of the questions, we suggest that you consider enrolling in CIT 105 - Introduction to Computers or DLC 100 - Digital Literacy in a traditional classroom. These courses are offered to equip students with the skills needed to successfully complete online courses.

After successful completion you may want to consider Learn on Demand for future courses.

If you answered YES to all of the questions, you may be a good candidate for online courses.

Students who are successful in these courses are able to work independently and structure their time wisely. A great deal of the material covered in online classes requires students to learn by reading from various sources. And of course, an important aspect of online learning is to make sure that your computer meets our technical requirements to support your online learning experience.

Before registering discuss the special demands of online class with the instructor or your advisor.