Is Online Learning For Me?
If you are wondering if online learning is for you, carefully read the following information before you decide. Being prepared for what's ahead will increase the likelihood that you will have a successful and enjoyable learning experience.
If you would like to take a self-assessment quiz for online learning, go to Are Distance Courses for Me?
How do these online classes work?
To participate in online courses you use your computer to go to a virtual classroom. There you will find all the information you need to be successful in the class and all the components of a real classroom and more.
 | You can check the class agenda and get current announcements about the class. |
| You can send and receive e-mail within the classroom as well as at your regular e-mail address. |
| You can participate in required and informal asynchronous discussion groups. |
| You can access the class assignments, complete them and submit them to the instructor. |
| You can take review quizzes with immediate feedback to help you assess your progress |
| You can be in constant communication with the instructor. |
The beauty of an online class is that you can do your work at times that fit your schedule and do not require that you be at a certain place at a certain time. There are deadlines, however, and you will be expected to keep up with the class schedule and turn assignments and tests in on time. You will have 24-hour access to the classroom and you will be expected to be in the virtual classroom any five out of seven days. You will have the most success in online classrooms if you set aside an hour each day, just as you would for a face-to-face classroom. Plan to spend 10-12 hours a week working on the class. Your presence and participation will count a great deal toward your final grade.
One of the most important requirements for successfully completing an online course has nothing to do with technology skills.
The most important skill is your ability to manage your time and studies in an independent way. If you cannot do this you will have a very difficult time and will not be able to enjoy the benefits of online learning. There are no class meetings and face-to-face contact with the instructor and your fellow students to keep you on track and on time. On the other hand communication and collaboration are dramatically enhanced in the online classroom and you may just find your self getting to know your instructor and fellow students better than you would in an on-ground class.
What technology do I need to participate?
Before you begin you should have access to a computer and the Internet. You should also be familiar with how to use it and several essential components. Ideally your computer should be at home, but if you have to rely on a computer at a friend's, work or school be sure you have regular access to it and are able to use the necessary components.
| You should have a full-featured word processing program like Microsoft Word, Word Perfect or Claris. |
| Access to a printer would be very useful. |
| You should have a recent version of a Web browser installed on your computer. The virtual classroom needs to have your browser Java-enabled so be sure that your browser has Java and that it is turned on. Both are free so download one as soon as you can. |
You do not need to be a computer whiz to take an online class. You do need to be familiar with your computer and be willing to learn the few skills necessary to get around in the virtual classroom , send and receive e-mail and surf the Web. An online class should be designed to be user-friendly and require a minimum of computer skills.
For additional technology information visit the Shoreline eLearningTechnology Requirements Information Page.
Do I need to come to any mandatory meetings?
some classes are totally online course so there are no required meetings. Some courses require several face to face meetings. The purpose of online courses is to give students that find it difficult or impossible to get to scheduled class meetings a chance to take courses.
What resources are required?
You will need to acquire the required texts from Shoreline Community College Bookstore, any online bookstore. Make sure you allow time for books to arrive before the quarter starts.
I want to take a class! What's next?
The classes will officially begin on on the first day of the quarter. and you will be expected to log in to the classroom beginning on the first day.
As soon as you have registered for the class send the instructor an e-mail.
Follow the posted instructions for logging into the classroom, changing your password and accessing the syllabus, schedule and getting-started instructions.
The most important thing for you to do before class starts is be certain your computer is working properly, you can use it, your Internet connection is OK and that you can get online, your browser is current and you can use it successfully.
What if I have more questions?
You can reach the instructor, Dr. Betsey Barnett at betseybarnett@shoreline.edu