Self-Assessment: Is Distance Learning for You?

Is Distance Education for you?

Distance Education is not for everyone. Some students thrive and learn best in a traditional classroom environment. This type of learner may find distance education stressful and uncomfortable. Take the Self-Assessment below to find out if distance education is a good fit for you.

1. I usually am able to comprehend what I read, including textbooks, study-guides, course syllabi, and other supplementary materials.
    
2. I own or have readily available access to a computer that is connected to the internet.
    
3. I am usually a self-motivated learner and usually accept responsibility for completing assignments, including preparing for examinations, with minimal oversight from my instructor.
    
4. I am good at handling multiple tasks at the same time.
    
5. I enjoy learning new computer technology skills
   
   
6. In previous courses, I usually am able to create and follow a schedule without procrastinating and without “face-to-face” meetings with an instructor or fellow students to help me complete my assignments.
    
7. My reading and writing skills have been adequate for successful completion of courses I have taken.
   
   
8. I have been successful in previous classes with prioritizing my class workload.
   
   
9. I understand that a distance education course requires at least as much or more time and effort as a classroom course.
    
10. My computer skills are adequate for successful completion of distance education courses.
    
    A. I have browsed the internet.
    
    B. I understand how to use my computer’s DVD, CD or USB drive.
    
    C. I can send, receive and reply to emails.
    
    D. I can download and install plug-ins as needed.
    
    E. I can print text or play audio and/or video files from Web sites.
    
    F. I can save text, images, audio, or video from Web sites.
    
    G. I can use a search engine to search the internet.
    
    H. I can use word processing software (MS Word preferred) to create and save documents.
    
    

If you answered “No” to any of the questions, you may want to consider acquiring additional skills prior to enrolling in an online course. Online courses require students to have adequate computers skills such as attaching emails, using word processing software, file management, and Internet research. Online student also should have good time management skills and be self-motivated.

To discuss your computer skills and other abilities necessary for successfully completing an online course, please contact Kim Patterson, Distance Education Coordinator, at kpatterson@wvncc.edu.