Is Distance Learning for Me?
You can take this self-assessment to see if you are ready to take an online course.
Computer
- I have access to and know how to use a computer and a mouse.
- I know how to use Help menus to look for answers to my questions.
- I know the difference between closing, minimizing, hiding windows and closing out a program.
- I know how to use the right-click menu functions on the mouse.
- I know how to download and install programs or pulgins.
- I know how to delete files.
- I know how to empty the recycle bin.
- I know where to go for help if I have problems.
Word Processing Skills
- I know how to create a document with a word processor such as Microsoft Word or WordPerfect.
- I know how to open and close documents.
- I know how to use spell check to check my documents for accuracy.
- I know how to copy and paste text.
- I know how to use the undo/redo functions.
- I know how to create new folders.
- I know how to save documents as different file types such as rtf, html, text only, etc.
- I know how to print documents.
Internet and Web
- I know how to use a search engine like Google.
- I know how to open a web page with the URL address.
- I know that I need to be aware of copyright issues when using information taken from the
- Internet/Web.
- I know what plagiarism is.
- I know how to compose, send, receive, and forward email messages.
- I know how to attach files to email messages.
Moodle
- I have read the student user guide for MyMtech and Moodle.
- My computer meets the minimum requirements for working with Moodleand MyMtech.
- I know how to log in and out of Moodle.
- I know how to read announcements and look up calendar events in Moodle.
- I know how to use the Forums feature in Moodle.
- I know how to submit an assignment to my instructor in Moodle.
Personal Characteristics Conducive to Online Learning
- I am self-motivated.
- I can meet deadlines.
- I am comfortable asking for help if I need it.
- I am comfortable communicating in writing.
- I have enough time to dedicate to this class.
- I have good reading comprehension skills.
- I am self-disciplined enough to keep up with course readings and assignments, and participate in class regularly without constant prompting from my professor.
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If you can answer yes to most of these statements, then you are a good candidate for an online course. If you answered no to most of these statements then you might want to consider taking a basic computer course before tackling an online course.
