The following list is offered as an aid to help you decide whether or not online learning is for you. It is NOT all inclusive. It is only offered to help you realize what you're getting into before you obligate yourself to an online class. After you've read this list, please take a few minutes to check out the rest of our Web Introduction by clicking on the links in the navigation bar at the left of this window or use the Tutor Page button at the bottom of the page. These offer details as to how Web classes are run and more information on successful online learning including several inventories and surveys that may help you decide about taking an online class. Other links provide information on what you'll need in terms of computer skills, what you need to have on your machine to work with us, how to configure it, and an explanation of Blackboard CE6, our primary delivery tool for online classes.
1. Online classes provide learning opportunities that are not time or place restricted.
One primary reason for taking online classes is that they can be worked into your busy schedule with a minimum of intrusion. Other than possible scheduled chats or proctored exams, you're normally not required to be at any particular place at a particular time. You can, at the time of your choosing, work at home, on your job, or anywhere you have the opportunity. There is no travel to or from campus on a regular basis. There isn't even a dress code. This frees you to get on with the rest of your life.
2. Online Classes are not for everyone!
Not everyone can succeed as an online learner. Differences in learning styles, maturity level, motivation, and personal circumstances are all factors to consider when deciding to take an online course. The Web Introduction following this page can help you to see if online learning is for you. Remember, help is with you all the way in the form of your instructor, your classmates, and others.
3. Online and Web enhanced classes offer more resources for learning.
Online classes open the world to you in terms of resources and diversity. While it's entirely possible to use the resources of the Web when taking a traditional class, most online classes are based on those resources and most require that you use them as part of the learning experience.
4. Online Classes are not easier than traditional classes.
Online classes are not an easy way out. You will be required to cover the same material as you would in a face-2-face class, although you may cover it in a slightly different manner. Most classes are not open entry/open exit. You will probably have assignment due dates, although most instructors allow you to proceed ahead if you wish. In other words, you can finish early; you just can't finish late. You may have required office hours. You may also be required to take your exams in a proctored setting, preferably at a WNC campus or outlying center. Please see the online syllabus or contact the instructor for the course that you are considering for further information.
5. Online classes promote success because the material is available 24/7 for study and review.
Unlike face-2-face classes where the material presented in class through lecture or other means is probably not available when you leave, almost all materials for an online class are available whenever you need them. This means that you don't have to worry about incomplete notes or losing an assignment sheet. If you need something or have a question, just pop back into class and check it out!
6. Online Classes require more discipline than traditional classes.
Many students feel that because they are free to work at their own pace and at their own convenience that online classes will be easier for them to complete. This may be true, but you must also consider other demands on your time such as family, job, and the difficulty of focusing on your studies in a non-traditional environment. Proper time management is crucial to your success.
7. Online classes develop confidence and a feeling of accomplishment.
Let no one kid you. You're going to have a feeling of great satisfaction when you complete an online class. Because online classes require the learner to take a much more active roll in their learning, the responsibility for success falls back on the student's shoulders. So, also, do the rewards. You will have accomplished something that not all are able to do, and you deserve to feel good about it!
8. Online Classes require more communication than traditional classes.
You'll hear it over and over from successful online learners. The key to successful online learning is communication. You must communicate with your instructor and fellow students on a regular basis. If you don't, you stand the very real danger of not getting an announcement from the instructor or missing out on a tidbit contributed by a classmate that can save you hours of hair pulling. Falling behind in your assignments is the kiss of death in online classes, and one way to avoid doing that is by communicating with your classmates and your teacher. Failure to communicate is setting yourself up for failure.
9. Online classes provide opportunities to take classes that otherwise might be impossible to take.
Because online classes fit well into flexible schedules, online classes may attract enough enrollment to be offered when on-campus classes may not. It may also be the only way to fit the class into your life's schedule.
10. Expect some frustration in an online class.
When learning online, you're dealing with technology, and one of the truths about technology is that it doesn't always appear to work as advertised. This frustrates you. Problems with your Internet Service Provider or your computer can put you off schedule. Realize before you start that frustration will probably raise its ugly head at one point or another in your online experience.
OK, If we haven't scared you off by now, spend a few minutes getting to know online classes in a bit more detail by moving on to our Online Tutor page.
