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Is Online Learning via WebCT For Me?

Note: These questions below are adapted from the ARL, "Are Online Lyceum Courses for Me?"

Find out if online learning via WebCT is suitable for you by answering the questions below.

  • Do I want to engage in an innovative learning experience using technology?
  • Do I have access to the correct technology to take a WebCT course? Note: While neither SIRLS nor UA appear to have officially established a minimum set of requirements, I have found that the following configuration has fewer technology problems: a comparatively newer computer at home, an ISP who is not MSN or AOL, PC rather than Mac, plug-ins for reading Adobe pdf, Microsoft Powerpoint ppt, Realplayer for audio/video files and Netscape Composer for editing HTML documents. 
  • Do I have the correct browser settings to take a WebCT course?
  • Do I have the time required to complete this course? Note:  Online courses typicaly take more time than oncampus and require a minimum of 10-15 hours per week for a 3-credit hour course.
  • Do I enjoy and communicate well in writing? Note: Be prepared to 'interact' via online discussions and forums on a weekly if not daily basis.
  • Am I willing to bring my life and work experiences to the learning process?
  • Am I committed to developing my skill set via online learning?
  • Am I self-motivated and self-disciplined?
  • Am I willing and able to speak up if I am having difficulty with the course? Note: Good and timely netiquette and communication skills are essential for a successful experience.
  • Will I be able to make learning a priority throughout the duration of the WebCT course I want to take?

If you've answered yes to most of these questions you are likely to be well suited for the online learning environment. 

If you've answered no to the majority of these questions, you should definitely read the following resources and practise what they advise:

1) Tips for Online Learning - http://www.ion.illinois.edu/IONresources/onlineLearning/tips.asp

2) Hints for Learning Online Learning - http://www.open.uoguelph.ca/resources/skills/hints.html

3) Tips for taking online courses - http://distance-ed.math.tamu.edu/tipsforonline.htm

Very simply, you can be a sucessful online learner if you log in daily, read everything (electronic and print) carefully, slowly and completely, allow time for reflection, discuss and communicate meaningfully, and practice patience including good netiquette. Finally, keep in mind that online learning is more time consuming and takes more planning than regular classroom learning - most  students typically forget this.

More surveys on Is Online Learning For Me? http://www.online.uillinois.edu/students/well_suited.asp

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© Copyright 2005 Anita S. Coleman.
Last update: 8/15/2005; 11:50:15 PM.