Is Online Learning for Me?
What is online or Web-based learning?
Web-based learning provides you flexibility and accessibility to take a class anywhere at your convenience. You access the class through the Internet using a Web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox. Connectivity to the Web is provided through your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
What is different about online learning?
An online class is student-centered learning with the student taking a more active role in the learning process and the instructor taking a facilitator versus director role. When taking an online class, you must be self-directed and budget your personal time and schedule to fit the time required for reviewing the class material and completing class activities. Just like a traditional classroom course, online courses vary in their design and structure depending on the class objectives, type of class content, instructional strategies, learning needs of the students, and the faculty.
What is the time commitment for an online class?
Similar to a traditional classroom class you will have class time and outside (or online!) preparation time that may include homework, readings, testing or assignments. Expect to spend a minimum of 9 hours per week on an online class that is 3 credits.
What are the student expectations in an online class?
Students need to first be able to self-manage their schedule and time to complete the expected class work, readings, activities and assignments independently as outlined by the instructor. When communicating online the student should use proper “netiquette”, respect, sensitivity and clarity in all communications. Students should expect to become more self-directed and a more active learner in the online delivery mode of education. Students will need to use various computer skills to effectively work in the online classes.
What are the benefits to online learning?
The major benefit to students is the flexibility of accessing a class at their convenience. Classes will still have scheduled activities and timeframes for completion, which the student must manage within their schedule, however the student has more control over when and where they complete the class online. Communications between faculty and other students is another benefit as access is made simple through the use of communication tools such as asynchronous discussion boards (communication not occurring at the same time) and e-mail or the use of synchronous (communication occurring at the same time) tools such as virtual classroom or chats. Students have more convenience and flexibility but they also have more independent responsibility in assuring they meet the expectations for the class.
Is online learning for me?
Things to consider would be your motivation for taking an online class and does this fit your lifestyle and schedule. Do you have the time to devote to the work involved in an online class? Are you good at prioritizing and getting things done without procrastinating? Can you communicate with instructors and students online versus in a classroom? Are you self-directed and motivated to work independently?
How do I prefer to learn?
Knowing your predominant learning style may be helpful to assure you get the most out of a learning experience. You can assess your personal learning style through an online assessment.
What computer skills do I need to successfully complete an online class?
Review the assessment
You should say yes to all the computer skills listed on the survey! If you have any areas that are deficient, please contact the CERC center for resource assistance, SON_CERC@urmc.rochester.edu.
Taking an online class can be fun, challenging and exciting! Research tells us that students do as well or better in an online class compared to a traditional classroom. Remember student success depends on you becoming an active self-directed participative learner!
