Is Online Study for Me?
Online courses are not a good choice for all students. Before investing in this mode of education, assess how ready you are to succeed:
- Do you have reliable Internet access at home?
- Do you have access to a computer that runs current versions of browsers, word and spreadsheet software?
- Can you commit to a regular, weekly period of time for studies?
- Are you comfortable with searching and browsing the Internet?
- Are you prepared to communicate primarily through email or through your course space, asynchronously?
- Are you comfortable reading to learn, and following written instructions? (or do you have technology set up for audio assistance?)
- Do you have support to study - from your family? employer? mentor/colleagues?
- Are you self-motivated in completing tasks? Do you meet personal and work deadlines consistently?
If you can honestly and confidently answer YES to most of these questions, then you may be ready to study online.
- If procrastination is an issue, online study is not for you. Time management is key to online success.
- If you have major life changes or work deadlines ahead, wait to register.
Take Action
- Check your computer meets the minimum technical requirements.
- Learn more: How to Succeed in Online Studies (video), Steps to Learning Online
- Discuss the pros and cons of adding an online class or completing an online degree with an academic advisor.