Online Learning (2)

Online Learning

Part 2

More Tips
Finally, look beyond the article for more clues.

• Read the website's home page and the About Us page. Look for a mission statement to learn more about the site, its purpose and the organization sponsoring it.
• If there is an author listed, look for a biography that discusses the author's education, profession, and other relevant background. If there is no bio on the site, search for one elsewhere on the web.
• Check the date. Facts can change over time, so see if the site shows when it was last updated.
• Presentation counts; look at everything from design to spelling. A clean, well-organized site shows a certain degree of professionalism.
• Avoid sites that are pornographic vulgar, inappropriate, below par, suggestive and falsifying.

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Profile of a Successful Student (3)

Profile Of A Successful Student 

Part 3

...owns or has easy access to a computer with Internet access and e-mail. 

You don't have to be a computer expert to be successful in online learning- but you must have access to a personal computer with reliable internet access, as well as a basic level of competency in using them. Owning a computer with internet access from your home is ideal but many students use the computer labs on campus or at their offices to complete their work.
...has basic computer skills and is willing and open to learning new ones

We said you don't have to be a computer expert to be successful in online learning. However, there are some basic technical skills you should have mastered prior to enrolling in an online course.

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Profile of a Successful Student (1)

Profile of a Successful Student

Part 1

A successful student...
... takes responsibility for his/her own learning
Online learning can be a powerful, stimulating, engaging experience for the student who can work and think independently. However, since most- if not all- of the learning takes place on your own time, you will not have the kind of direct supervision you would in a classroom. Online learning therefore requires a significant commitment from you. All education comes down to what you're willing to invest in the experience- this is particularly true in the online environment. Commitment, self discipline and self motivation are all key qualities to ensuring success in an online course!
... is comfortable and confident with written communication
Reading and writing are the basis of most online courses, so it's critical that you feel comfortable with this form of communication. While some courses contain modules that include videos or other activities, all of them require significant amounts of reading. And nearly all of your communication with your classmates and your instructor will be in writing. If these are weak areas for you, you will want to address those issues prior to enrolling or while enrolling in an online course. The PSU WRITING CENTER is available to assist you.
... is willing to be a member of an online community.

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