By Dr. Dolores Kiesler

Thinking about taking an online class? Considering whether online education is for you? Wondering what you need to know or do? If you answered “yes” to any of the above, then read on!!!!

Are you able to communicate well in writing? Online classes require not only written communication for individual assignments to the instructor but also the ability to communicate clearly and concisely during class discussions.

Are you able to handle delayed feedback? In an online class, replies may take a few hours or even a few days.

You will need self-motivated to be self-motivated time management skills to have good time management skills to be self-disciplined to have daily access to the Internet

Are you aware of the two major myths regarding online classes? Myth #1: Since you will not have the same attendance requirements as an on-ground class, online classes will less timeNOT!!!!! take less time. NOT!!!!! easier Myth #2: Online classes are easier than NOT!!!!! regular on-ground classes. NOT!!!!!

Are you tolerant of electronic challenges? Online classes come with their own set of technical frustrations. Are you able to deal with computer crashes Internet connection breakdowns Internet connection breakdowns with the minimum amount of stress?

Do you consider yourself technologically savvy? Can you manage s, cut and paste to Word documents, send file attachments, conduct web searches, and learn to use course management software?

Do you have the basic computer hardware requirements? Typical needs will include a computer with: Internet and access a Web browser such as Netscape 5.0 or Explorer 5.0 or higher JavaScript and Cookies enabled High speed modem – 56K minimum Active address Windows 98, 2000, XP or MAC OS 8.6 or higher 64 MB of Ram 1 G of free disk space

Do you have the basic software you will need? The most often required software includes: Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Adobe Acrobat Reader 4 or higher Quicktime, Flash, or other plug-ins for playing media files may also be required for some courses.

Do you have a good anti-virus program on your computer? Don’t think this won’t happen to you!!!!

So, you might ask yourself, WHAT ARE the benefits of online classes?

A few benefits include: Convenience (work just about whenever you want) Fewer time constraints (take as long as you need to absorb class lectures) No travel time to and from school Allows greater comfort (work wherever and wearing whatever you want)

More Benefits: May eliminate course time conflicts Provides an excellent learning environment for visual learners Removes many biases and prejudices present in face-to-face communication Gives the chance to review discussion responses before posting them

And a little advice from some online students:  It is not easier than a regular class.  It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get through it.  Do not take it [an online class] if you think that it is an easy A.  You need several uninterrupted hours each day and you need to be motivated to get what you want out of the class.  [An online class] is time consuming but in the end it equals out to the time spent in a classroom. 

And the final piece of advice from an online student... “If you're not up to the responsibility and the self-discipline, take the class on-campus.”