​Characteristics of a Successful Online Student

Online courses offer students opportunities to learn in new ways and make learning available to many who cannot attend a traditional class.

• Be open-minded about sharing work and educational experiences as part of the learning process.

  Introverts as well as extroverts find that the online process requires them to utilize their experiences. This forum for communication eliminates the visual barriers that hinder some individuals in expressing themselves.

• Be able to communicate through writing. 

  In the virtual classroom, nearly all communication is written, so it is critical that you feel comfortable in expressing yourself in writing.

• Be self-motivated and self-disciplined. 

  With the freedom and flexibility of the online environment comes responsibility. The online process takes a real commitment and discipline to keep up with the flow of the process.

• Be willing to “speak up” if problems arise.

  When you experience difficulty on any level (either with the technology or with the course content), you must communicate this immediately. Otherwise the instructor will never know what is wrong.

• Be willing and able to commit to 7 hours per week per course. 

  Online is not easier than the traditional educational process. In fact, many students will say it requires much more time and commitment.

• Be able to meet the minimum requirements for the course. 

  The requirements for online are no less than that of any other course. An online course is a convenient way to receive your education, not an easy way.

• Accept critical thinking and decision making as part of the learning process. 

  The learning process requires you to make decisions based on facts as well as experiences. Assimilating information and executing the right decisions requires critical thought.

• Have access to a computer and a modem. 

  The communication medium is a computer, phone line, and modem- the student must have access to the necessary equipment. Many students prefer to work from home; however, students may access computers on campus.

• Be able to think ideas through before responding. 

  Meaningful and quality input into the virtual classroom is an essential part of the learning process. Time is given in the process to allow for the careful