Online Readiness

Whether you are a full-time student athlete on the road, a busy working adult, or a parent working within the home, online learning offers a flexible and convenient way to expand your education.   Many students enjoy the freedom of scheduling and independence they experience in online courses.  However, if online learning is something you are considering for the first time, you should also consider the amount of commitment you are able to make to learning in an online course.

Online courses at Greenville College are designed with student engagement at the core.  Online students are challenged with a variety of learning experiences both independently and cooperatively within the course.  The amount of interaction varies by subject, but a well-managed study plan will help the online learner stay focused, on task, and involved. 

Unfortunately, online students can sometimes end up neglecting their course work because of personal circumstances or the idea that online learning is going to be easier.  The reality is, it is often more difficult than traditional classes because it requires a great deal of self-discipline.  Online students need to be able to devote approximately three hours of work per week per credit hour enrolled.  To help you decide if online learning is right for you at this time, answer the following questions about your technology readiness and learning style preferences.

Technology Readiness

• Do I have access to a computer with high-speed internet access on a regular basis?
• Am I comfortable with keyboarding?
• Do I regularly use e-mail?
• Do I know how to create, save, and organize files on my computer?
• Am I familiar with how to use a web browser (Firefox or Internet Explorer) to find information online?
• Do I look forward to learning technology skills that are new to me?
• If I lose internet access or have computer problems, do I take action to get it fixed immediately?
• Do I have another computer available to me as a backup?
• Am I able to check into my online class daily for information and announcements?

Learning Style Preferences

• Am I self motivated and organized?
• Can I work independently?
• Do I manage my time well?
• Am I able to communicate well with others in writing?
• Do I feel comfortable using reading and writing as my primary means of learning?
• Do I avoid procrastination when it comes to schoolwork and deadlines?
• Am I comfortable asking questions when I don't understand something or need clarification?
• Am I able to dedicate six to nine hours per week to an online class?
• Am I comfortable sharing and discussing my ideas with classmates?
• Do I have a dedicated location where I can study regularly?

*If you answered "yes" to most of these questions, then you are a strong candidate for online learning!