Online Courses
Educational Outreach Program
Distance Education
Is Online Learning For You?
Online classes are often very different than traditional face-to-face classes in terms of how the material is presented, the nature of the interaction among class members, and the overall learning experience. Many students report that they actually learn more in online classes than in face-to-face classes and find the experience more rewarding. But online classes aren't right for everyone. Even if you are an excellent student, you may find that online classes are not compatible with your learning style.
So, before enrolling in your first online class, give some thought to whether online learning is right for you. Answering the following questions may help you with this process:
Do you have self-discipline and motivation?
Unlike traditional courses in which the students and instructor meet face-to-face, learning activities and communication in an online course are asynchronous, meaning that class members participate and complete their assignments at different times throughout the day and week. This arrangement can make it possible for you to do your class work when it's most convenient for you. However, with this increased freedom and flexibility comes responsibility. Without the structure of regular class meetings, it will be up to you to pace yourself and keep up with assignments.
Are you able to commit time each day or week to your online course(s)?
Online courses often require at least as much, if not more, time and commitment than traditional courses. Completing course assignments and other learning activities can take from five to fifteen hours or more per week. And you may find that you need to be online almost every day. So before enrolling, be sure you can set aside enough time to keep up with your daily or weekly assignments.
Do you have good communication skills and enjoy expressing your ideas in writing?
In online courses, nearly all communication is written, so it is critical that you feel comfortable expressing yourself in writing. If you feel that you are weak in this area, try to brush up on your writing skills and find out how much writing is required for the course before enrolling.
Do you feel comfortable discussing problems with your instructors?
If you are having problems with the technology or the course content, you need to let your instructor know as soon as possible. Without this feedback, your instructor will never know what is wrong.
Will you miss the experience of sitting in a classroom?
While the level of interaction can be very high in online courses, it is not the same face-to-face interaction. Some online students miss having the opportunity to see and listen to their instructor and classmates. If you feel that a traditional classroom is essential for learning or you want to experience campus and dorm life, online classes may not be right for you.
Are you comfortable using a computer?
You do not have to have a high level of technology skills to take online courses but you must be able to correspond by email, know how to attach a document to an email, and be willing to take a risk to learn how to navigate the courses. Just as important, your computer and your internet connection have to be dependable.
Contact Lisa Azure, Online Coordinator, to learn more about online education.
