Quiz #1
Will you become a successful online student? Answer
the following questions and let's find out if an online or distance learning
university degree program is right for you. Write down the number for each
statement that best describes you.
1. Which statement best describes you?
I am a self-starter with solid personal motivation.
I need occasional prodding to accomplish goals.
I don't work independently and require constant prodding or reminders.
2. I learn best:
When I read material.
When I see or hear it (auditory/visual).
When I can both hear and see the material.
3. As a worker:
I usually meet or beat deadlines.
I have a hard time getting focused by myself.
I procrastinate to the last minute and beyond.
4. On tests and other school assignments:
I figure out instructions on my own.
I can usually follow the directions, but I like them to be available.
I have difficulty figuring out instructions on my own and need to hear them read to me.
5. When I turn in an assignment, I like feedback from the teacher.
Within a reasonable amount of time.
Within a day or two, or I become distracted.
Immediately.
6. When it comes to the organization of the class material:
I can learn even if the class is not highly structured.
I like some structure in the class.
I feel very uncomfortable without structure.
7. Dealing with technology:
I have excellent computer skills.
I have some computer and Internet facility.
I am not very familiar with a computer and do not feel comfortable surfing the Net.
8. When I am asked to use computers, e-mail, or other technologies:
I have little or no difficulty learning new skills.
I am glad to try and ask for help if necessary.
I frequently get frustrated and may prefer to avoid computer work.
9. Feeling that I am part of a class is:
Not particularly necessary to me.
Somewhat important to me.
Very important to me.
10. I would classify myself as someone who:
Often gets things done ahead of time.
Needs reminding to get things done on time.
Puts things off until the last minute or doesn't complete them
11. Classroom discussion is:
Rarely helpful to me.
Sometimes helpful to me.
Almost always helpful to me.
12. When an instructor hands out directions for an assignment, I prefer:
Figuring out the instructions myself.
Trying to follow the directions on my own, then asking for help as needed.
Having the instructions explained to me.
13. Considering my professional and personal schedule, the amount of time I have to work on a distance learning course is:
More than enough for an on-campus course.
The same as for a class on campus.
Less than for a class on campus.
14. As a reader, I would classify myself as:
Good. I usually understand the text without help.
Average. I sometimes need help to understand the text.
Slower than average.
Now determine your score by adding up the number
for each of the 14 questions above.
(14-20) Certifiable e-learner!
(21-29) Online / Distance Learning is right for
you.
(30-37) Consider a hybrid program offering with
some class attendance.
(38-42) Campus body - choose a college or
university you can attend. (1)
Quiz # 2
The following quiz can determine whether your
personality and lifestyle are compatible to online distance learning. Keep
track of the number or "Yes" and "No" answers to the 18 questions
below.
1. I have access to a computer and the
internet required for a distance learning experience.
Yes
No
2. I am not intimidated by using technology applications for learning.
Yes
No
3. I feel comfortable using a computer for basic word processing, using the Internet, and sending/receiving e-mail.
Yes
No
4. I have strong time management skills and am able to meet deadlines and keep track of assignments, and I enjoy and am successful at independent learning.
Yes
No
5. I am able to learn successfully without face-to-face interaction with others.
Yes
No
6. I can easily express my ideas, comments, and questions in writing.
Yes
No
7. I am generally flexible and can easily adjust to changing schedules.
Yes
No
8. I am a self-starter.
Yes
No
9. I am a good time manager.
Yes
No
10. I am capable of self-discipline.
Yes
No
11. I am good at comprehending what I read.
Yes
No
12. I am goal directed if I set my sights on a result, I usually achieve it.
Yes
No
13. I feel confident about my academic skills.
Yes
No
14. I am persistent and don't give up easily in the face of deadlines.
Yes
No
15. I believe in taking responsibility for myself and my education.
Yes
No
16. I am willing to try something new.
Yes
No
17. I am willing to work in a non-structured setting.
Yes
No
18. I enjoy actively participating in my learning process by working on projects and independent research-based assignments.
Yes
No
If you answered "yes" to at least 12
of these 18 statements, a distance learning online high school with AIU may be
right for you! But, if you answered "yes" to fewer than 12, you might
want to rethink your interest in an online or distance learning program.
(2)
Explanation
Distance Learning students sometimes neglect their
courses because of personal or professional circumstances. Having a compelling
reason for taking the course helps motivate the student to stick with the course.
Some students prefer the independence of Distance Learning; others find the
independence uncomfortable and miss being part of the classroom experience.
Distance Learning programs give students greater freedom of scheduling, but
they can require more self-discipline than on-campus classes. Some people learn
best by interacting with other students and instructors. Others learn better by
listening, reading and reviewing on their own. Some Distance Learning programs
provide less opportunity for group interaction than most on-campus courses.
Distance learning requires you to work from written directions. It may take as
long as two to three weeks to get comments back from your instructor in
Distance Learning classes. Distance Learning requires at least as much time as
on-campus courses. Students surveyed say that Distance Learning programs are as
hard or harder than on campus courses. Most people who are successful with
Distance Learning find it difficult to come to campus on a regular basis
because of their work/family/personal schedules. Print or online materials are
the primary source of directions and information in Distance Learning.
(1)
1. (Adapted from "Are Telecourses For
Me?" and printed in the PBS-Adult Learning Service The Agenda, this
questionnaire was developed by the Northern Virginia Community College Extended
Learning Institute.)
2. Gilbert, Sara Dulaney. "From How To Be a
Successful Student." McGraw Hill, 2001, Pages 75-78.