Are you ready to learn online?
Contents

LEARNING STYLE
THE TECHNICAL SIDE
INTERNET AND EMAIL
YES OR NO?

This quick quiz helps you decide if you have the learning style, skills and other technical requirements to be a successful online student.

 
LEARNING STYLE

Can you keep working on a task without someone there to keep you focused?

Online learning brings freedom and flexibility with it, but you need to be self-directed, self-motivated and self-disciplined to keep up with your course commitments.

Do you communicate well through writing?

Online learning often relies on email forums, chat and instant messaging to communicate. You need to feel comfortable expressing yourself in writing to be able to contribute to your course and network with instructors and other students.

Do you ask for help when you need it?

It is harder for your online teachers to 'pick up' when students are having problems in the virtual classroom. If you are having difficulties, whether with technology or understanding the course, you need to ask for help as soon as possible. The North Coast Institute has a Service Desk service available - you can phone, email or fax to log your help call.

Are you willing and able to commit much the same hours per week to your online course as you would to one run traditionally?

Students who have tried online learning say it takes more time and commitment to study online than in the traditional way. Online learning may be more convenient, but it is not easier.

Are you willing to think about the knowledge in your course and your experiences, then share your ideas, even though they could be challenged?

An open, friendly 'climate' is important in online learning. You get some time to reflect critically on information covered in your course and on your life/work experiences before you respond in online activities. Ideas may be challenged just as in a face-to-face classroom discussion - it is encouraged as part of the learning process.

 
THE TECHNICAL SIDE

Do you have access to a computer, with a modem and a dialup or Broadband connection?

If you want to access a course from your home, work or somewhere else you'll need to make sure you have the right setup. 'Somewhere else' could be a TAFE computer lab, a TAFE library, a friend who will allow you to use their system sometimes, some public libraries, or there may be an internet cafe near you. There will also be minimum recommended hardware and software requirements, including virus protection.

If you plan to log on to your course from home or work, will you have a local call internet service provider or other connection?

You will need a connection to the Internet, probably through a commercial Internet Service Provider you can dial up to for the price of a local call, or a broadband connection. There may be another type of connection available at work. There may also be a security firewall set up at work. If so, you may need special permissions to download and install some of the plug-in programs needed for your course.

Does the computer have the software applications you need to word process, manage files, send emails and access the internet?

One common word processing software application is Microsoft Word. Web browsers, used to display and navigate the Internet include Internet Explorer 6.0 (recommended) or higher and Mozilla Firefox 2.0. It must support Javascript, Microsoft Outlook Express, or Eudora Lite can be used for email.

Do you have basic computer skills?

There are some basic computer skills you need to succeed in an online course. This includes file management such as creating directories/folders to store your files; create, name, save and copy files. It also includes word processing, using an Internet browser;and using email. Individual courses and programs may require additional computer skills. If you are in doubt about your abilities, try this online module: "Skills Assessment for Online Learning" (Flash and Shockwave plugins required)

Are you able to install any 'plug-in' programs needed (given some help)?

 
INTERNET AND EMAIL

Do you have an email address?

Can you create and send an email?

Can you attach a file to an email?

Can you receive and open a file attachment?

 
YES OR NO?

If you answered YES to most of the questions above, online learning may be a great way for you to gain qualifications.

If you answered NO to most of the questions, you may need to develop your learning style, technical skills and access to equipment before taking on online learning.

You have taken a vital step in finding out what online learning demands in return for its advantages. Now you can make an informed decision.

Good luck!