Is an Online Course Right For You?

Answer these questions and then go to the Explanation page for more information. 

1.   As a reader, I would classify myself as:
a. Good - I usually understand the text without help.
b. Average - I sometimes need help to understand the text.
c.  Slower than average.

2.    I rate my skills in completing the following Internet tasks:

·    navigating the Internet,

·    using email--including attaching a file to an email message

·    downloading a program from the Internet and installing it

·    doing a search on the Web
a. Excellent
b. Good
c.  Weak 

3.   When I am asked to use VCRs, computers, voice mail, or other technologies new to me:
a. I look forward to learning new skills.
b. I feel apprehensive, but try it anyway.
c. I put it off and try to avoid it.

4.   My need to take this course now is:
a. High - I need it immediately for a degree, job, or other important reason.
b. Moderate - I could take it on campus later or substitute another course.
c. Low - It's a personal interest that could be postponed.

5.     Feeling that I am part of a class is:
        a. Not particularly important to me
        b. Somewhat important to me.
        c. Very important to me.

 6.    I would classify myself as someone who:
        a. Often gets things done ahead of time.
        b. Has no problem getting things done on time.
        c. Puts things off until the last minute.

7.    Classroom discussion is:
        a. Rarely helpful to me.
        b. Sometimes helpful to me.
        c. Almost always helpful to me.

8.     When an instructor hands out directions for an assignment, I prefer:
        a. Figuring out the instructions myself.
        b. Trying to follow the directions on my own, then asking for help as needed.
        c.  Having the instructions explained to me.

9.     I need instructor responses to my questions and assignments:
        a. Within a week, so I can review what I did.
        b. Within a few days, or I forget what I did.
        c. Right away, or I get very frustrated.

10.   Considering my professional and personal schedule, the amount of time I have to work on online courses is:
        a. Six or more hours a week
        b. Four to six hours a week.
        c. Less than four hours a week. 

Copied with permission from the California Virtual Campus Orientation to Online Learning Guidebook.

For additional information, email
anita.crawley@montgomerycollege.edu
Last updated 2/08/07