Just as in the conventional
classroom, there are certain attitudes, skills, and abilities
that can make the online learning experience more successful
and enjoyable. Read through the following statements and
consider how well they might describe you.
1. I like the idea of not having to drive or commute
to class.
2. I am interested in
learning more about my faith.
3. I am excited at the
thought of being able to join a class with adult Catholics
from across the country (and perhaps even other countries).
4. I believe that an
essential component of any learning experience is dialogue
with others and I value the opportunity to be part of
a learning community.
5. I like the idea of
setting my own times for "going to class"
instead of being tied to specific times and locations.
6. I will be able to
login to the course every other day or so to check in
and keep current with class communications.
7. I am able to manage
my time and schedule time each week for completing readings
or viewing lectures, for contributing to class discussions,
and completing assignments.
8. I am able to spend
2-5 hours a week or 5-10 hours a week (depending on
the course) on an e-Course.
9. I am comfortable communicating
in writing, and comfortable reading the writing of others.
10. I have good typing
skills.
11. I am not hesitant
to ask questions and to "speak up" when problems
arise.
12. I am comfortable
sharing my ideas, thoughts, and opinions with others
whom I have not met face to face.
13. I am an "active
learner," interested in and able to take responsibility
for my learning experience.
14. I am self-motivated
and able to work independently.
15. I am comfortable
using computers, the Internet, and e-mail. I am not
bothered by the thought of learning new technology (note:
STEP assumes participants are new to online learning
and we provide orientation material to ensure participants
have adequate comfort with the software--Concourse--used
to deliver our courses. More information on
Concourse appears later in this guide).
16. I am flexible and
open to the new experience that online learning offers.
