Are Online Classes Right For Me?

Online classes are not for everyone.  I say that, but it's not for the reason you think.  Anyone can be successful in online classes.  Being successful in an online class has nothing to do with academic aptitude.  It really comes down academic discipline.  Here are some questions to ask yourself to determine if you have what it takes to be successful in an online class......

1.  Am I willing to carve out regular time?  So often students think they can "do this anytime."  While that is true, you will have due dates for assignments, projects, tests, etc.  Students who set up regular time each week to focus on their online class are more successful than those who do not.

2. Do I like to read?  I guess that is not exactly the right question.  I would say it would be more:  Will I do all the reading?  It is much more difficult to fake your way through an online class.  They typically require you to write out your thoughts.  Professors are not asking you clarifying questions and there are not others raising their hands to answer questions.  You need to be prepared with the answers to questions.  That requires you to actually read the material.

3.  Am I a social learner?  While many faculty members require group assignments/projects in their online class, much of what you do is on your own.   Learning to work alone can be beneficial to you.  I will say however that if you primarily prefer social learning environments, online may not be the best answer for you.

4.  Do you communicate well in writing?  The online environment will force you to communicate your points in writing.  If writing is not your greatest strength, you may struggle in the online class.  Granted if you are taking math online this may not be relevant, but for everything else it is.

5.  Are you willing to seek out help when you need it?   Many campuses do not offer the same services online as they do in person.  If you are struggling with your class, you will need to be willing to come to campus for support if they don't offer it online.

The online environment is a fantastic way to both supplement your education and get your education. Nationally research tells us that students are less successful in the online environment than more traditional environments.  You can buck that trend if you are committed to the online course(s) you are in.