Distance Learning for Students

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

Self-Assessment: Learning Approach

Is my approach to learning a good match for online learning?

How well would an online course fit your circumstances and lifestyle? A successful online learner needs certain skills, most importantly, a high degree of discipline and motivation. 

1. My motivation for taking an online course is:

Select
One: 		Motivation Level
A. High – I need it immediately for my degree, job advancement or other important reason
B. Moderate – I could take it later or I can substitute another course
C. Low – It’s personal interest, it could be postponed

2. Having face-to-face interaction with my instructors and fellow students is:

Select
One: 		Importance Level
A. Not particularly necessary to me.
B. Somewhat important to me.
C. Very important to me.

3. I would classify myself as someone who:

Select
One: 		Typical Behavior
A. Often gets things done ahead of time.
B. Needs reminding to get things done on time.
C. Puts things off until the last minute.

4. Classroom discussion is:

Select
One: 		Level of Helpfulness
A. Rarely helpful to me.
B. Sometimes helpful to me.
C. Almost always helpful to me.

5. When an instructor hands out directions for an assignment, I prefer:

Select
One: 		Preference
A. Figuring out the instructions myself.
B. Trying to follow the directions on my own, then asking for help as needed.
C. Having the instructions explained to me.

6. I need faculty comments on my assignments:

Select
One: 		When faculty comments needed
A. Within a few weeks, 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. More than enough for campus class or a distance education course.
B. The same as for a class on campus.
C. Less than for a class on campus.

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 kebellnier@ccri.edu .


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Last Updated: 5/16/18