Distance Learning for Students

  2. Online Learning for Students
  3. Self-Assessment - Learning Approach

Self-Assessment: Learning Approach

Keys to success for online courses

How can I succeed in an online course given my circumstances and lifestyle? A successful online learner builds certain skills, most importantly, a self-discipline and motivation. 

1. My motivation for taking an online course is:

Select
One: 		Motivation Level
A. High – I need it for my degree, job advancement or other personally important reason.
B. Moderate – I need this course or one like it to say on my educational path.
C. Low – I could take it later or substitute another course.

2. When I have a question or concern in class,

Select
One: 		Importance Level
A. I reach out to my teacher and/or peers quickly.
B. I hope someone else asks first or ask a friend before asking the teacher.
C. I am uncomfortable speaking up or reaching out

3. I would classify myself as someone who:

Select
One: 		Typical Behavior
A. plans out my work and deadlines.
B. works on what's in front of me only.
C. assumes someone will tell me if I am missing something.

4. Connecting with my peers for learning (sharing ideas, working together) 

Select
One: 		Level of Helpfulness
A. is important to me. I am an active contributor in class 
B. is something I am willing to do if required.
C. is not important to me.

5. When reviewing directions for an assignment, I:

Select
One: 		Preference
A. Am comfortable figuring out the instructions myself first before asking questions.
B. Try to follow the directions on my own and often seek help from the instructor or peers.
C. won't start working on it if I don't understand it.

6. I need faculty comments on my assignments:

Select
One: 		When faculty comments needed
A. Within a week or two, so I can review what I did.
B. Within a few days, or I forget what I did.
C. Right away, or I get very frustrated.

7. Considering my professional and personal schedule, the amount of time I have to work on an online course is:

Select
One: 		Amount of time I have to work on course
A. I can schedule ~10 hours to dedicate to this course.
B. I can set aside a few hours on a couple of days.
C. I can squeeze in time here and there.

8. When I am asked to learn technologies that are new to me:

Select
One: 		Comfort Level using new technology
A. I look forward to learning new skills.
B. I feel apprehensive, but try it anyway.
C. I put it off and try to avoid it.

9. As a reader, I would classify myself as:

Select
One: 		Reading Level
A. Good - I usually understand the text without help.
B. Average - I sometimes need help to understand the text.
C. Below average - I frequently need help understanding text.

10. When I need to use a computer,

Select
One: 		Access to a computer
A. I have access to a relatively good computer and know how to use it
B. I have access to a relatively good computer, but not too familiar with it.
C. I do not have access to a computer
Calculate your "score"

3 points for each “A”
2 points for each “B”
1 point for each “C”

Scores of 20 or more

Online courses can be a good match for you

Scores between 11-20

Online courses can work for you. Pay attention to the "C" areas for potential challenges and seek out resources and assistance.

Scores less than 10

You may run into barriers in online courses. Talk to an advisor.

Assessment Background Notes:
  • Online students sometimes can end up neglecting their courses because of personal or professional circumstances unless they have compelling reasons for taking the course.
  • Some students prefer the independence of online courses; others find it uncomfortable.
  • Online courses give students greater freedom of scheduling and require more self-discipline than on-campus courses.
  • Online courses may not have "live" sessions or may only be available on request. You may need to reach out to peers and instructors.
  • Online courses require you to work from written directions without face-to-face instructions.
  • Feedback is rarely instantaneous in online classes.
  • Online courses require at least as much time as on-campus courses and you have to make that time in your schedule.
  • Online courses rely on technology and web-access for teaching and communication.

This page developed and maintained by Online Learning for Students. Send comments and suggestions to [email protected] .


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Last Updated: 7/8/20