Online Course Readiness Self Assessment

How well will this online course fit your circumstances and life style? Write down your answer to each question as A, B or C, then scroll to the end to see the result and analysis.

Students who tend to be most successful are those individuals who are self-directed and self-motivated in their learning and study habits. Answer honestly since no one will see the result but you! (*This survey is partly adapted from "Are Telecourses for Me?" from PBS-Adult Learning Service)


Question 1

My need to take this course now is:
A. High. I need it immediately for a specific goal.
B. Moderate. I could take it on campus later or substitute another course.
C. Low. It could be postponed or retake.
.
Question 2

I would classify myself as someone who:
A. Often gets things done ahead of time.
B. Needs reminding to get things done on time.
C. Puts things off until the last minute or doesn't complete them.
.
Question 3

Classroom discussion is:
A. Rarely helpful to me.
B. Sometimes helpful to me.
C. Almost always helpful to me.
.
Question 4

When an instructor hands out directions for an assignment, I prefer:
A. Figuring out the instructions myself.
B. Trying to follow the directions on my own, then asking for help as needed.
C. Having the instructions explained to me.
.
Question 5

Considering my professional and personal schedule, the amount of time I have to work for this online course is:
A. More than enough for an on-campus course.
B. The same as for a class held on campus.
C. Less than for a class held on campus.
.
Question 6

Coming to campus on a regular schedule is:
A. Easy for me.
B. A little difficult, but I can rearrange my priorities to allow for regular visit to instructor or TAs.
C. Extremely difficult for me. I have commitments (work, family or personal) during times when helps are offered.
.
Question 7

As a reader, I would classify myself as:
A. Good. I usually understand the text without help.
B. Average. I sometimes need help to understand the text.
C. Slower than average.
.
Question 8

When I need help understanding the subject:
A. I am comfortable approaching an instructor/TA to ask for clarification.
B. I am uncomfortable approaching an instructor/TA, but do it anyway.
C. I never approach an instructor/TA to admit I don't understand something.
.
Question 9

In general, I can say that: I am a self-starter with the self-discipline to set a schedule and stick with it. I have good time-management skills.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 10

I feel comfortable reading/viewing material from various sources (textbooks, articles, Websites) and integrating it on my own.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 11

I am comfortable working independently and do not feel the need for constant attention and direction from the instructor/TA.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 12

I feel competent in assessing my own progress, knowing what assignments are due, and performing well - even without frequent feedback from the instructor.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 13

I have a fairly predictable schedule of personal and professional activities -- with time easily set aside for coursework.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 14

I believe I can dedicate the same amount of time and effort to this online course that I could to a classroom-based course.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 15

I am just as comfortable interacting with my instructor and fellow classmates via email, discussion groups, and chat rooms as I am with face-to-face discussion -- perhaps even more so.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 16

I am very at ease working on computers acquiring information through the Internet and learning new software, technologies, and techniques.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.
.
Question 17

I have a specific - and quiet - area (of my house or apartment) where I can get online, study, and complete my course assignments.
A. Agree.
B. Neutral.
C. Disagree.


Self Assessment Result Analysis

Add 3 points for each "A" that you selected, 2 for each "B" and 1 for each "C".
 

Of course, nothing is carved in stone, and even if you scored a low number on this survey and you could still succeed in this course. The purpose of this survey is to familiarize yourself with the traits of successful online course learners; however, not all distance learners fit one profile, so use your own judgment, and if you are determined, then try your best at it and see how it goes.