How Can I Get Ready?

Some people love learning online because it gives them flexibility in their lives, especially if they are also working or parenting. Others find online learning challenging because of personal learning styles, because they are unprepared for the time commitment and self-motivation required, or because of technology issues.

Benefits

  • Flexibility - You can learn and achieve your educational goals on a schedule that works with your life. You could even complete a course or program in your pajamas -- without ever going to campus!
  • Technology - Online courses allow you to use the internet and technology to learn and be successful. In some courses you can even use your smartphone to communicate with your classmates and instructors, do your homework, and check your grades.  This improves your own technology fluency, preparing you to succeed in a world that increasingly relies on technology.
  • Empowering - Online courses give every student an equal voice in communicating with one another and the instructor.  If you are normally a bit reserved about speaking out publicly, or feel that you don't have enough time to express your ideas properly, online classes give you the power to communicate your thoughts in a way that feels right for you.

 Necessary Skills

  • Organization - Online students must independently take responsibility for setting up a schedule, following directions, and completing work.
  • Self-motivation - If you have a question, you will have to reach out to your instructor or classmates -- take charge of your education and be willing to speak up when you need help 
  • Technologically prepared - You will need regular access to the internet and reliable technology that will meet the requirements of the course activities.
  • Time management - online courses take as much time and effort as traditional on-campus classes, so you should expect to put in the same amount of work!  Make a plan to keep track of your own due dates and to engage in class as required on your own.

Use the "Next" button below and take a quiz which will help you identify which areas of taking an online course you will need to prepare for, then use the resources in this course to address any areas where you feel unprepared.  The quiz will open in a new window.