Distance Education Pre-enrollment Questionnaire

Is distance education right for you? Because online courses are different than traditional face-to-face course, you should decide if learning online is right for you. Please answer the following questions, honestly, to determine your readiness for distance education.

Part One: Technology Experience

I am competent in the following areas:

If you answered “yes” to all of the questions above, move on to Part Two. If you answered “no” to any of the questions above, we recommend that you enroll in either “This Is a Computer” or “Computer Literacy” prior to taking online courses. Please contact student services at 750-3250 to inquire about which class is right for you, and the dates and times each is available.

Part Two: System Requirements

The following components are available to me on a daily basis:

• Access to a computer that is running Windows XP or higher, iMac, PowerMac, or a PowerPC running OS9 or higher
• Reliable, convenient access to the Internet with a Java enabled web browser such as Netscape, Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Mozilla
• A soundcard with headphones or a speaker
• Flash plug-in, QuickTime plug-in, and Real Player all installed on your computer

If you answered “yes” to all of the questions above, move on to Part Three. If there were any questions you answered “no” to, you will need to update your computer and/or browser so that your system is compliant for online learning.

Part Three: Work and Study Habits

Online courses require all the skills necessary to be successful in a traditional face-to-face course. In addition, students will need the extra skills of self-motivation, discipline, and excellent time management. Online courses typically require more time per week than face-to-face courses. We recommend that you plan at least 6-8 hours of study time per week for online courses.

Do you:

• Start working on assignments as soon as you receive them
• Monitor your progress, keep up with your assignments, and meet deadlines
• Manage your time appropriately
• Ask for help or clarification if you do not understand an assignment or concept
• Have at least 10-20 hours each week for studying and completing assignments
• Have the determination to stick with your studies even when challenges present themselves

If you answered “no” to any of the questions above, you may want to evaluate your reasons for taking an online course.

Part Four: Learning Styles

Which of the following statements apply to you:

• I effectively express my ideas, comments, and questions in writing
• I can complete a task without direct supervision
• I am comfortable interacting with my instructors and classmates via e-mail and chat
• I enjoy using technology (i.e., the internet)
• I am confident in my reading abilities
• I am highly motivated to learn the subject involved
• My performance does not depend on how my peers perform

The questions above relate to some of the learning obstacles you might encounter in an online learning environment. Most online courses require a lot of reading and limited access to your instructor; if you feel overwhelmed or frustrated by these demands it can make your learning experience difficult. We urge you to evaluate you personal learning style so that you can be successful in an online learning environment.