Online Readiness Quiz
The online readiness quiz is under revision, but we have listed the skills needed for online learning. If you have these skills, then you will be successful in our online classes.
Technical readiness
If you are taking an online class, the instructor expects you to have fundamental computer skills. These skills include
- Knowing how to use a word processing program, including how to cut-and-paste, saving your work, and basic formatting.
- Familiarity with email, including sending attachments and attaching hyperlinks in an email.
- Knowing how to browse the internet using an internet browser, such as Internet Explorer. Basic internet browser skills include how to bookmark a site and search the internet using a search tool like Google.
- Basic familiarity with your computer operating system. You may have to add or update plug-ins such as Sun Microsystems Java, Adobe Flash or Adobe Acrobat to participate fully in your online course.
You must have ready access to the internet, as you will need to access your online course on a regular basis.
Depending on the course, you may need speakers or headphones, a microphone or a web cam. The hardware requirements will be listed in the course syllabus.
You instructor may want all documents submitted in Microsoft Word format, so you should know how to open and save your word processor documents to either MS Word or a text file.
Learning readiness
You will also find an online class is not easier or harder then the traditional face-to-face class. The level of work required is about the same. The biggest difference is online communication is done mostly using text, which includes email and discussion forums.
Taking an online class requires self-discipline and time management skills. You will not be meeting at regularly scheduled times, so you need to establish your own personal schedule to study and complete your assignments.
A good time-management strategy is essential, as well as the self-discipline to stick to the plan. The typical online course is not self-paced. There are deadlines for every assignment, and you must be able to manage your time. You must be able to manage your time effective and meet deadlines without having to be reminded.
Other characteristics of successful online students are
- Have at least an average reading ability
- Ability to express yourself through writing and
- Always reads directions carefully.
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