Is eLearning for Me?
Online learning is different in many respects from the traditional
face-to-face learning we're all used to, primarily in the
way we get our information and how we interact with instructors
and classmates. Many people say they learn more online, and
their retention is better too.
Consider
that good students in the traditional setting may fair poorly
in an online environment, while struggling students may excel
with online courses. This can be explained in part due to
differences in learning styles. Visual, self-directed learners
do well at online learning, but others succeed because online
instructional design is often sophisticated and planned to
reach a wide variety of learners.
Lifestyles
play a big role in the success of online learners too. These
are the traits that successful online students possess, to
varying degrees:
- Self-Directed
- Motivated
- Comfortable with computers
- Able to use email, internet browser, word processor
- Like to read and write
- Inquisitive
- Disciplined
- Independent
- Able to stay on task
These questions may help you decide if online learning is
for you:
Are you self-directed and motivated?
Most of online learning happens on your schedule. You'll need
to be self-directed and motivated to complete activities on
schedule and initiate the communication required to be successful. You'll be responsible for creating the structure to finish
each course.
Are
your technical skills adequate?
Along with having access to a computer and not being overwhelmed
by typing, online learners should be comfortable with internet
browsing and searching, email, sending and reading attachments,
word processing, and sometimes downloading and installing
software plug-ins (a normally simple but sometimes intimidating
task).
Do
you have strong reading skills?
Reading can play a large part in any class, and especially
online. The ability to read and comprehend subject matter
without it being a chore is critical to your success.
Does
written communication come easily for you?
In most cases writing is the primary method of communication
in online classes, so you should be at ease with writing to
express your thoughts, share ideas, and ask questions.
Will
you ask questions when you need to?
If you typically don't hesitate to seek help when you need
it you'll do fine. Since you'll be in an online environment
it's important to let your instructor and classmates know
when you need help. Remember that they won't be able to see
your looks of doubt, confusion, or other body language to
tell when things aren't going well.
Will
you miss the social interaction?
Interaction with instructors and classmates in online learning
is often an integral part of the learning experience. Absent
is the in-person contact - being able to see facial expressions,
hear reactions, and speak. Campus life may be different or
non-existent too.
Do
you have the discipline to study regularly?
Like a traditional school you'll need to set aside adequate
time for study. You may discover that you need to be online
frequently to complete assignments or communicate with classmates
and instructors. You can plan to spend at least as much time
working assignments and studying as you would with a traditional
course, and you'll be setting your own pace in many instances.
If
you're satisfied with your answers to these questions, you're
likely to do well in an online learning course. The links
below are furnished as additional resources to help you decide.
Is
Online Learning for Me?
OnlineLearning.net's self-assessment
Are
Distance Learning Courses for Me?
College of Dupage's self-assessment
Is
Online Learning for Me?
Pace University's List of Questions
Source:
WorldWideLearn.com
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