I have a computer with Internet access or can get access to one easily on a regular basis.
To be a successful online student, you need to either own a computer with an Internet connection or have ready access to one several days a week for several hours at a time. A high speed Internet connection is recommended. If you plan on using a computer other than your own, be aware that some courses require software installation or computer setting adjustments which may not be possible on a public computer.
I enjoy learning and exploring new software and other technologies.
If you do not enjoy working with computers and learning new technologies, you may avoid logging in and delay completing online coursework. However, if you are highly motivated to complete the course, this may compensate for your lack of enthusiasm for the technology.
I am comfortable using computers and have basic computer skills, including being able to create, edit, and manage word processing files and file folders; access and navigate the Internet; and send and receive emails, including those with attachments.
While it is not necessary to be a computer expert, it is important that you feel comfortable using a computer to perform basic tasks. If you are not skilled in the areas mentioned, you may want to consider taking an introductory computer course before taking an online course.
I am comfortable downloading plug-ins, players, and programs, such as Adobe Reader or Flash Player, from the Internet and installing them on my computer.
Online courses may require that you download and install specific software, plug-ins and/or players to your computer. You should be comfortable performing these tasks before attempting an online course.
Generally, I feel that when I encounter technical issues, they can be resolved.
It is important to recognize that everyone runs into problems from time to time, but most difficulties can be worked out. There may not be an immediate solution, so patience and persistence is required.
I enjoy reading and have good reading skills.
Most online courses have a large amount of online and printed text materials. You should have good reading comprehension skills in order to understand the material being studied.
I am comfortable communicating in writing.
Most communication with your instructor and your classmates will occur online through discussion topics, email, and chat. Therefore, you should feel comfortable sharing your written thoughts and ideas with others. The use of ?chat lingo? or text message abbreviations are generally not considered appropriate in the online classroom.
I am an organized person who is able to structure my own time.
Once a student gets behind, it is very difficult to catch up. Successful online students are good self managers. They set aside the necessary time during each week to work on their course and complete assignments by due dates.
I expect an online course to require just as much work as a face-to-face course.
While the flexible scheduling of an online course can make it easier for you to complete your education, the courses themselves require just as much hard work and dedication as face-to-face courses. In some cases, students may face more challenges and need to put forth more effort in order to be successful.
I expect to dedicate 10-15 hours per week for a 15-week course. I understand that courses of shorter duration will require me to devote additional hours per week.
One common mistake that first-time students make is underestimating the amount of time that it takes to read their course materials, study, and complete course assignments. With the exception of time saved not having to commute to campus, an online course takes at least as much time as a face-to-face course.
I need to take courses online in order to earn a degree, get a better job, or for another reason important to me.
Students who have strong motivation for taking courses and who are focused on their goals have a greater chance of being successful online learners.
I like the idea of learning course material on my own as long as I have an instructor available to guide me.
Online learning requires students to be self-directed learners capable of independent learning. While the instructor will provide direction and access to learning materials, successful students make a personal commitment and take responsibility for their own learning.
I am willing to ?speak up? in class if problems arise.
In an online course, the instructor receives no visual clues to know that a student is having a problem. If you experience difficulty with the technology or the course content, you need to communicate this immediately to your instructor.
I think of myself as a good student (e.g., take good notes, prepare and study for examinations, and have good study habits).
While you may need to develop or modify study skills and habits specifically for the online environment, having good study habits in general will be a big factor in determining your ability to succeed.
I have a specific place where I will be able to study and work on my course assignments without interruptions.
Online learners may find they are challenged with more distractions than they would experience in a physical classroom. It is especially important for online students to set aside a distraction-free study area where they can read and complete their course work.
I do not mind if I never actually meet my instructor and classmates in person.
Many students do not miss face-to-face classroom meetings because they get plenty of online interaction with their instructor and classmates. In most online classes, you will never meet your instructor or classmates in person. If that really bothers you, online learning is probably not a good choice for you.
I am comfortable waiting for responses from my instructor.
Online instructors check their courses and respond to student communications within two business days. It is important to keep due dates in mind when working on assignments as questions may come up, and an answer might not be immediate.
I have identified resources to help me succeed, and I seek assistance when I need it.
It is important to identify and seek out available resources. HACC provides many FREE online and on-campus resources, such as tutoring, to help you succeed. Visit our website or give us a call to learn more.
I am confident that I will learn as much in an online course as I would in a face-to-face course.
One of the biggest factors in your ability to succeed will be your belief that you can make it happen. If you believe that you will learn as much or more in the online classroom, then you probably will!
I tend to plan ahead and complete tasks early, rather than waiting until the last minute.
While there is a good bit of flexibility in how and when you complete coursework, you must take the initiative to login to your class and complete course work by the due dates. If you are a procrastinator and cannot overcome this habit, an online course may not be for you.
