Are
You Ready for Online Learning? |
To be successful in an online course you need a reliable computer, be self-motivated,
and be able to manage your time. Take this 20 question self-assessment to find out if you are ready for online learning.
Please answer Yes or No to the following questions. Click
Get Results to get your results.
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1. My computer is less than three years old, has no virus problems, and runs reliably on Windows 7 or higher or Mac OS X or higher.
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2. I own the computer that I will use for class. I have a printer, headphones or speakers. And if needed, I have a microphone.
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3. I have a hard wired connection to the Internet using either a high speed DSL or cable connection. I don’t rely on a Wi-Fi connection because it may be unstable. I don’t rely on a dial up Internet connection because it is slow and not reliable.
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4. My browser will play several common multimedia (video and audio) formats.
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5. I have and know how to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint or other software if required for my course of study.
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6. I have virus protection software running on my computer.
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7. I am comfortable with installing or downloading software. I can add a printer or other devices when needed.
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8. I can identify and correct simple computer problems or know someone who can help me.
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9. I have the basic skills to operate a computer and am comfortable with saving files, creating folders, and moving files, etc.
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10. I have basic Internet skills and am comfortable doing searches, setting bookmarks, and downloading files or plug-ins. I am comfortable using email.
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11. I think that I would be able to remain motivated even though the instructor is not online at all times.
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12. I usually finish things I start, and I do not quit just because things get difficult.
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13. I believe it is important for me to finish my degree program.
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14. I am willing to spend 7-10 or more hours each week on this online course.
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15. I plan my work in advance so that I can turn in my assignments on time.
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16. I have a dedicated room, office, or library time where I can study, listen to video/audio lectures, respond to discussions, and complete assignments without being interrupted.
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17. I am willing to set aside uninterrupted time to read course materials, complete assignments, participate in discussions, and respond to other learners, group members and/or the instructor.
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18. I can learn course content when it is presented in formats such as short video clips, audio recordings, podcasts, or online text.
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19. I have pretty good reading comprehension and am comfortable with reading to learn the majority of the course content.
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20. I am comfortable with communicating and carrying on a conversation through discussions, email, or blogs, etc. with people I may never see.
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75 e-Learning Activities. Copyright © 2005 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Reproduced by permission of Pfeiffer, an Imprint of Wiley. www.pfeiffer.com |
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Your score suggests you will have challenges with computers and technology.
You need to have a reliable and up to date computer before you enroll in an online course.
You may need to improve your computer skills so you can comfortably navigate courses,
open video or audio files, and submit assignments in your online course.
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Your score suggests you are almost ready for online learning.
You may need to update your computer, software, and/or basic computer skills so
you are able to focus on your studies and have a successful experience.
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Your score suggests you have the technology and computer experience necessary for success in an online course.
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Your score also suggests you may have challenges with time management and staying motivated in an online course. Take a close look at your personal goals and current obligations. What adjustments do you need to make to be able to balance your obligations and make time to pursue your degree? You may feel more comfortable learning in a face-to-face class than participating in an online class. Online courses ask students to learn by methods other than traditional class lectures; you may need to decide if you are willing to learn by reading content online, participating in online discussion, viewing videos, or listening to podcasts.
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Your score suggests you are mostly motivated and committed to learning online. Before you enroll in an online course you may need to plan how you will balance your work, family, and study schedule. You’ll need to be ready to read content online, participate in online discussions, view videos, or listen to podcasts. You’ll need to have good study habits and a make sure you have a positive support system to help you stay motivated.
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Your score also suggests you have the motivation, commitment, and time management skill for success in an online course. If online learning is new to you, you may need to set a schedule to access and participate in your online course.
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Staying motivated and on schedule is challenging in almost any course and this is especially true in the online classroom.
Successful online students take responsibility for your own learning and are self-directed learners.
They access their online courses frequently, check announcements often, post to discussion boards timely, and aren’t afraid to ask questions.
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