Here is a
quick way to become familiar with the skills required for
successful online learning. Read the statements and think about
whether they are true of you. If the statement is always true,
select "A" from the dropdown box. If the statement is
not always true of you, then choose B, C, or D and assign the rating
you think best represents your actual learning behavior. A
"D" indicates that you would rarely or never study that way.
Learning
Behavior
My
Rating
1.
When
I read a reference book, article, or manual, I am able to
maintain good concentration and know what steps to take to
remember what I need to know.
2.
I
do not procrastinate.
3.
When
I read, I am aware of whether or not I understand the
material. If I do not understand, I know what to do to
improve my comprehension.
4.
I
do not feel anxiety during a test to the extent that it
interferes with my thinking.
5.
I
am a self-starter. I can work on my own and follow a schedule
of my own making. I do not need the stimulus of an instructor
to keep me involved in a course.
If you
have mostly "A" ratings with one or two "B"
ratings, you are probably a good candidate for an on-line
course. The explanations below list the reasons that these
skills are important to you.
Statement 1.
You
take an online course on your own. It is very important for
you to understand how to process the information provided in the
course so that you can understand and remember what you have read.
Statement
2.
Procrastination
is one of the biggest problems for online learning. If you
register for a course that is only available for a certain period of
time, you will have to manage your time so you can learn the course
material, successfully pass the test, and receive the credit you
earned and paid for.
Statement
3.
This
statement deals with a very important skill: being able to
evaluate and monitor your own learning as it is taking place. Your
success will be determined by the action you take when you realize
your are not understanding something. To be successful, find a
new or different way to approach the material.
Statement
4.
A little anxiety over a test can
keep you sharp; however a lot of anxiety can interfere with your
ability to concentrate and to think clearly.
Statement
5.
For
online learning, you need to be able to work comfortably on your own
and rely on your own internal motivation.
