Online Courses
Tips for Online Course Readiness
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- In an online environment there is no face-to-face interaction. Participation in the class is done entirely in writing. If you are not comfortable writing because you need to brush up on your writing skills consider taking a writing course or tutoring in the AAAC (2643) for writing assistance before enrolling in an online course. If communicating in writing is undesirable, then consider enrolling in a class that offers a traditional classroom setting.
- Reading is required in all higher education classes, including online. In fact, there is actually more reading involved in online classes, because print materials are the primary source of directions and information. If you find reading undesirable, then an online class may not be right for you at this time. If you do not enjoy reading because comprehension is difficult, then you might want to take a reading class like Reading 105 or attend tutoring sessions in the AAAC (room 2643) before enrolling in an online class.
- Because online courses are presented over the internet, it is important that you be able to comfortably access the internet and be familiar with its technologies. Accessing your online classroom will requireyou to get online and browse the web. Online communication often occurs in the form of email, and you will need to be able to send and receive attached files via email in order to send and receive assignments and documents. Also, all of the lecture material and documentation that your instructor would normal hand out to you on paper will now be digitized. You will need to be able to download, save, and print those documents in order to use them. If you are not comfortable with most of the tasks listed, you may want to consider taking a course like CIS120 – Intro to the Internet, before attempting to take an online course.
- Many online courses require you to create documents, as well as view existing documents. All of the things that you would normally “hear” from an instructor will now be printed – either on your computer screen, or within a printable document. You should be able to save files from the online classroom and open them in a word processor for viewing or printing.
- You should also be able to create and save new documents. In addition – many features of the online classroom function similarly to features in popular word processing applications (such as Word). Familiarity with a word processor can help you to navigate the online classroom as well.
- If you are not comfortable using a computer-based word processor, you may want to consider taking a course like CIS101 – Intro to Computers, before attempting to take an online course.
- It is important to be able to configure your computer to best use the features available in your online classroom. Sometimes, to access the materials in your online classroom, you may have to configure audio or video settings, or install browser plugins (such as Real Audio, Real Video, Windows Media Player, or Flash) in order to view or hear course materials. Instructions for performing these task are included as necessary, and you should be sure that you are able to comfortably complete such tasks, or have ready access to someone who can perform the configuration activities for you. Typically configuration of your computer will occur once at the start of the course.
- The standard formula for determining work time necessary to complete a college course is 2 hours of work outside of class per credit hour. So, a face-to-face 3 credit hour class would require at least 6 hours of work per week outside of class. Since online courses do not meet physically, you should expect to spend the time you would have spent physically in the classroom working in your online classroom. A typical 3 credit hour online course requires at least 9 hours per week to complete course work.
- Online courses offer increased flexibility, but also require students to carefully manage their time. Students who tend to wait until the last minute to complete assignments might put off online course work until it becomes overwhelming. Should you decide to enroll in an online course be prepared to dedicate yourself to using your time efficiently and managing your time wisely.
- You need not own a computer with reliable internet access, but you must be able to use one regularly. If you do not own a computer yourself, do not have a relaiable internet connection, and do not have friends or relatives who are willing and able to give you a significant amount of time on theirs, you may consider using the Computer lab at Prairie State College. Prairie State College has a state of the art computer lab available for student use. However, if you are unable to connect to the internet regularly, an online course may not be a good option at this time.
- In an online class, the learning process is more independent so you will have to take the responsibility of asking questions or for help if necessary. Don't worry if you are generally shy in a traditional classroom environment. In an online class, asking for help may actually be more comfortable for you because there is no face-to-face interaction. Everything is done in writing, so people tend to be less shy or scared of speaking up.
- It is a common misconception that online courses are easier or less time consuming than regular face-to-face courses. The truth is that online courses require as much (if not more) time and effort as a regular course. Online courses use the same learning objectives as face to face courses. They are just presented differently. The good news is that it is well worth the effort. The important thing is to recognize that you will put in at least the same amount of time and work into your online course as you would in a regular course. For your dedication and effort, you get the convenience of taking the course from home instead of traveling to the school campus for class meetings.