Online Readiness Assessment

Thank you for completing the online readiness checklist. Below you will find some advice you might find helpful when trying to decide whether to register for a seated, hybrid, or online section of a course.

Feedback

Please review the categories below to understand the results of your score.

Study Habits / Course Participation / Interaction

Learn more about how to meet deadlines successfully and avoid procrastination through these important tips:

Understanding and Overcoming Procrastination

Time Management and Organization

If you scored 80%-100%: You have demonstrated that you can meet the demands of an online course. Your willingness to participate and interact with your classmates and instructors will promote your success.

If you scored 40%-79%: To succeed in an online course, you must carefully choose a place to study compatible with your work habits. Devise a way to keep track of your assignments and due dates so you can plan your work. You need to be willing to interact with your instructor and fellow classmates when you have questions.

If you scored 0%-39%: Perhaps a seated course would better align with your needs and study habits. Face-to-face interaction in a physical classroom may be a better choice.

Importance of Good Study Habits, Course Interaction, and Participation

Many online courses rely heavily on written communication. This may make the course less appealing to those who require directions in alternate formats. It is important to understand your own learning style and make accommodations that will fit your personal needs. This may include communicating frequently with your instructor to ensure you fully understand instructions. However, all is not lost! Many online courses now include streaming video or audio files, chat sessions, and synchronous meetings.

Fully participating in an online course, communicating with your peers, and sharing your experiences will also assist you in successfully completing an online course.

Technology Access and Computer Skills

Action: What do I do?
Test and enhance your computer skills:

Computer Basics Tutorials

Improving Your Computer Skills

If you scored 80%-100%: You have met the basic technological requirements for participation in an online course.

If you scored 40%-79%: Your computer may need some upgrades or additional software installed to ensure the best possible online learning experience. You should have an up-to-date operating system, current version of a browser, high-speed Internet access, virus protection, and possibly headphones with a microphone. The complete list of hardware and software required for online learning may vary slightly by course. Review specific course requirements before starting any online course.

If you scored 0-39%: You may not be ready for online courses. Taking a seated course on basic computer skills may prepare you to take online courses in the future. Speak with your advisor for more information.

Importance of computer Skills

Being comfortable with the Internet and familiar with computers will aid you in completing an online course. Remember, you are not alone. All students experience technical difficulties from time to time. Before you report your technical difficulties, it is important to ensure that you carefully followed the instructions. It is equally important that you communicate with your online instructor in order to ensure your success. Technical skills alone will not make you successful. There are other factors involved, such as time management and motivation.

Time Management / Personal Commitment / Motivation

Action: What can I do?

Learn more about how to meet deadlines successfully and avoid procrastination through these important tips:

Understanding and Overcoming Procrastination

Time Management and Organization

If you scored 80%-100%: You have demonstrated that you have adequate time management and motivation necessary for participation in an online course.

If you scored 40%-79%: You need to improve your time management skills and study habits (such as keeping yourself on track, meeting deadlines, and working independently) before you can be successful in online learning. Set some challenging goals for yourself and commit yourself to achieving them.

If you scored 0%-39%: Personal conflicts may hinder your progress in an online course. Seated courses may be a better option at this time.

Importance of Time Management, Personal Commitment and Motivation

The flexibility of the online environment can promote procrastination. Therefore, it is essential to set aside ample time to complete your work. Not only will this result in a better grade, but it may also result in learning more from the course and prevent the need to withdraw.

In addition to managing your time, you should also have a clear commitment to your career goals, as well as realistic expectations of a course. Both of these elements will aid in your completion of an online course.

Even if you meet all the requirements for taking an online course, the following link contains excellent resources to support your online learning experience.

http://learningcenter.unc.edu/handouts/

Take a look at the list of characteristics for a successful online learner. Do you have what it takes?

• Motivated, self-disciplined, and independent learner
• Ability to follow written and/or verbal directions
• Strong time management skills
• Communicates well in written format and is not easily frustrated
• Comfortable with the use of new and existing technology; including, but not limited to Internet, e-mail, word processing software, and presentation software
• Ability to seek assistance when necessary
• Will be able to succeed without face-to-face interaction with classmates and instructor.

If you would like to view a detailed report of your results, please click the View Questions button below.