Online learning can be as fun and educational as any traditional class.  But it requires a different kind of commitment from the student.  See if you can answer these questions with a resounding “yes!”

Do you have the time?

Online classes may be flexible as regards the times when you can devote to them--practically any hour of the day or night.  But they still require substantial hours of work.  For example, during a typical fifteen-week term on campus you would meet in class for two and a half hours a week.  You would also be expected to spend an additional 5 to 8 hours outside of class on reading, writing, and studying.  Thus an online course can reasonably demand 8 to 12 hours a week, if not more.  If the term is only eight weeks long, you can double that number.  Be sure to log onto and check into course materials as often as your professor recommends. 

Do you have the motivation?

Online courses require more self-discipline than traditional courses.  Without regularly seeing the professor and other classmates, one can easily miss the coercion to get work done in a timely manner.  You might even feel isolated.  But means of communication are open.  Don’t procrastinate.  Don’t fall behind.  You aren’t being spoon-fed;  you must actively take charge of learning. 

Can you follow written instructions?

The professor has already provided most necessary information for you online.  Be sure to read it carefully, following all important links.  Students too often make mistakes because they rushed headlong into an assignment without carefully considering what the professor provided and required. 

Can you communicate well with writing?

Online classes rarely draw on verbal skills.  Instead, discussion groups and assignments usually require you to read, think, then communicate your own written response.  Since class is often asynchronous (not live time), you can take your time and compose a good answer (with correct spelling).  Don’t rush.  But don’t wait until too close to a deadline either. 

Can you respect people of various talents and abilities?

Often online courses include learning from other students, not just the professor.  But since other students are also beginners, they may not show, to you, an adequate level of preparation or skill.  Be careful with criticism, since it is the professor’s job to grade them, not yours.  “Netiquette” requires that you should always be polite, respectful, and helpful.  Try assisting other students in learning with your contributions. 

Can you ask a question when you need to? 

If you do not understand part of an assignment, task, reading, whatever, it is up to you to communicate such to your professor.  In the traditional classroom, looks of confusion, muttering, or other body language can cue a professor when something is not understood.  Online, only your written words can provide that information.  And if you don’t understand something, odds are someone else doesn’t either.  So help everyone by asking.  And if you have a problem with the technology, e-mail webct@kings.edu or call (570) 208-5814.