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Online courses can work for any student but there are qualities and characteristics of
online courses that make them better suited for some learners than others. To see if online
classes are right for you, ask yourself a few questions. Are you comfortable working
at a computer? Taking an online class means you will be working and reading at a computer
for several hours a week. Do you have reliable access to a computer and the internet from
home? This is not required but, needing to go to the library or a computer lab will severely
limit your participation and success. Are you comfortable using the internet and can
you work online without becoming distracted? Research is showing that a common characteristic
of successful online learners is fluency in online learning technologies as well as the
ability to efficiently work on the internet without getting distracted by online socializing.
Do you have time to take this class? Don't assume online classes are easier. Online classes
are a popular choice for busy students. Many students find them easier to fit into their
schedules. But, taking an online class requires just as much time and effort as a class on
campus, maybe even more! A four credit class on campus would have four hours of classroom
meetings each week, plus study time outside of class. Be prepared to put in the same amount
of time with an online class. Can you stay motivated to meet deadlines? Many students
appreciate the freedom of online learning. However, some find it uncomfortable. The subject
matter and assignments in online courses are the same as in face-to-face sections, but
in a way, you are teaching yourself the material. Online classes are not the same as self-paced
classes. Online learning requires self-direction and self-regulation. You will be required
to meet deadlines and participate in class discussions. If the absence of a traditional
class structure causes you to lose the motivation to keep going it will be difficult to succeed.
Are you comfortable asking for help? Effective communication is critical to success in the
classroom but even more so in an online environment. It is essential that you be proactive in communicating
with your instructor. He or she wants you to succeed, but it can be difficult to know
when a student is struggling in an online environment unless they ask for help. You
need to be comfortable initiating contact with your instructor for help quickly and
as often as necessary. Did you answer "yes"to most of these questions? Then online courses
might be right for you. Even if you didn't, you can still do well in an online course,
but it may require additional commitment on your part. For more information, please contact
the Department of Writing Studies.