Online Learner Readiness Tool

# Are You Ready to Take an Online Course?

Distance learning provides considerable freedom, allowing students to often choose when and where they'll participate in class activities. However, this flexibility must be balanced by responsibility, as courses will have deadlines, course attendance requirements, or group collaboration. Contrary to popular belief, online courses are not easier than traditional classroom learning and are more rigorous. There are many possible challenges to online learning, as outlined below:

- A high level of self-motivation and discipline, in addition to planning and preparation skills, are required to succeed.

- Online courses have the same workload as traditional courses and in some cases, more. Students will have assignments, exams, requirements, and deadlines just as their on-campus peers.

- Students should have an understanding of technology. Students will be required to use computers, webcams, and various software programs to complete and submit their assignments.

- Students need to be self-directed learners with high motivation to complete tasks on their own. Research shows that students who are self-directed, motivated, and engaged in the course with a strong connection to the instructor and their peers, are more successful.

### Time on Task

Additionally, online students should expect to spend at least as much time in an online course as they would in a traditional course, and sometimes more. A 3-credit-hour online course in a 16-week session will require approximately 6-9 hours per week engaging in coursework.

# Learner Readiness Tool

### Purpose

The Learner Readiness Tool (LRT) is a collaborative creation designed to introduce students to crucial components of online learning prior to taking an online course.

| Time Management Online course success begins with effective time management skills... |  | Reading, Rate , Recall Online course success begins with effective time management skills...
| Learning Styles Do you know how you prefer to learn? Learning styles (preferences)... |  | Organizational Skills Organizational skills are essential to an individual's success to help a person...
| Workspace and Environment Study environments have a huge impact on successful online learning... |  | Technical Requirements Devices used to successfully complete online course work should be reviewed...

# Time Management

Often times, students have some misunderstandings concerning online courses. One common misconception is that online courses are easier and require less time than traditional face-to-face courses. However, being an online student is not a simple task. Online courses require as much, if not more, energy than traditional on-campus courses. While taking online courses does offer more flexibility and convenience for students, there are still deadlines and specific requirements that online students must follow in order to be successful. One of the most important skills you can have as an online student is effective time management.

# Here Are a Few Time Management Tips

##### Create a plan and establish a routine

- Structure is very important in the online environment. Spend time familiarizing yourself with your online course structure.
- Read your syllabus thoroughly refer to it throughout the course for readings, deadlines and assignments.

##### Use a calendar or planner to note important course dates:

- Consider using an app on your Smart Device, a written calendar, or planner. Find a system that best fit your needs.
- Add times and locations dedicated specifically for studying.

##### Plan ahead. Check in often, at least once a day!

- Log into your courses and check the announcements daily.
- Download the LMS app to your mobile phone if available. Notifications can be sent to directly to your phone notifying you of any new announcements.

##### Utilize University Resources

- Many universities offer online tutoring, librarians, writing centers, etc. Be sure to look for any information on your university's webpage pertaining to services available for online students.
- Speak up if you are having problems or falling behind.

##### Create a Distraction Free Work Space

- Most of your time will be spent on your computer or mobile device, try to avoid distractions. Remind yourself that this particular time on your computer or mobile device is dedicated to your course. Try to avoid Facebook, surfing the web or texting during this time.
- Find a work space with a good internet connection, waiting on videos to buffer can be a huge time waster.

##### Take Time to Reward Your Accomplishments

- Celebrate a good grade on an exam or completing a research paper with a movie or ice cream.
- Maybe the best reward for yourself is rest.
- Taking time for yourself can help you avoid burnout.

### Resources

- Top 10 time management tips for online students
- 4 time management tips for online students
- Time management tips online students

# Assess Your Time Managemet Skills

# Reading, Rate, and Recall

When it comes to our personal growth, culture and development, literacy is one of the most important skills. As a learner in higher education, you will need a wide range of literacy skills to achieve your goals both as a learner and professional. Whether you are reading content online or by print, how effective you are at reading will be a factor in your success as a learner. As part of being successful, it is important to consider how fast (rate) you read and how much you can remember (recall) afterward. The tips and resources provided are designed to help you be successful in your higher education journey.

Speed Reading Test Reading and Comprehension Test

### Tips:

### Resources:

###### General Reading Improvement

- Dartmouth Academic Skills Center: Reading Techniques – Strategies for improving reading rate and comprehension
- Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read – Active Reading Strategies
- Spritz – When you're spritzing, you're reading text one word at a time in our "redicle," a special visual frame we designed for reading.
- Zap Reader – Web-based speed-reading program
- Rewordify – Powerful, free, online software that improves reading, learning, and teaching.
- Online Student Readiness Tutorial

# Reading, Rate & Recall Self Assessment

# Learning Styles (Preferences)

### Do you know how you learn?

Dr. Hugh Foley explains the importance and value of understanding why learning styles (preferences) are so important. Please review the video before proceeding further. Visual, Aural, Read/Write, Kinesthetic (VARK) tells you something about yourself that you may or may not know. It can be used to understand your boss, your colleagues, your parents, your workmates, your partner, your customers, your teacher, your relatives, your clients and yourself. It is a short, simple inventory that has been well-received because its dimensions are intuitively understood and its applications are practical. It has helped people understand each other and assists them to learn more effectively in many situations.

720 HD - Time 3:22 - Transcript

### Resources

- Index of Learning Styles (ILS)
- University of Western Ontario – Enhancing Your Learning Style
- National University of Singapore – Successful Learning articles for students\

# Visual, Aural, Read/Write, Kinesthetic Assessment

# Organizational Skills

### How do you know if your current organizational skills are good enough

Organizational skills are essential to an individual's success to help a person; plan, prioritize, and achieve his or her goals. Also, good organizational skills teach individuals to stay focused, complete tasks, and better utilize time so that students can successfully complete their online course work. Preparing, planning, and implementing best practices will; prevent frustration, late assignments, and procrastination.On this page you will finds tips, resources and information about planning and getting organizied. After reviewing the information visit the self assessment "Access your organizational skills".

720 HD - Time 9:25 - Transcript

# 10 Organizational Tips

##### Sleep and Wake Up on Time

Set your alarm clock in a place where you physically have to get out of bed to turn it off. The more movement your body makes the better chances you will awaken quicker and stay awake.

##### Determine Your Best Time to Study

Are you a morning person or a night person? Schedule your most critical tasks when alert and not sluggish. It's smart to book your studying when you will get the most out of it.

##### Develop a Schedule (Plan at the beginning of the week)

Establish a routine of regular activities including studying, healthy eating, working out, and free time. You will function better physically, emotionally, and mentally. A well-balanced college schedule will give you the most out of your college experience.

##### Set Daily Goals

Write down a daily to-do list. A daily plan will give you a sense of direction on how you should spend your time.

##### Take Notes

Intense note taking is required for classes. Whether you are taking notes on lined paper or on your computer, do a quick read-through after class. When the material is fresh on your mind, you will better remember it and can add anything you might have missed.

##### Create a Clean Workspace

Make your study area neat and clutter-free. Remove any items that will keep you from doing your homework. Minimize noise that might make it hard to concentrate (television, loud music).

##### Organize Your Materials

Keep your class notes and course work in order. When it comes to studying, It's helpful to find everything in one place like one folder on your computer's desktop or one notebook.

##### Turn Off the Distractions

When studying, it's essential to stay focused. Turn off your smartphone and don't check your email or social media while on your computer. With your full attention on studying, you will get a lot more accomplished in a shorter amount of time. Phone calls, texts, and emails can wait.

##### Form a Study Group

Bringing fellow classmates together could prove to be a good learning strategy. Discussing theories and quizzing each other can help boost your knowledge on subject matter. Try to limit your study group to 6 people to keep it from turning into a social event.

##### Use Your Phone for Reminders

Most phones have a reminder feature. Set your phone to remind you in advance of important events, so you don't forget to turn in a project or study for an exam.

### Resources:

- Tips for staying organized in college
- Top Tips to an organized college binder
- 7 ways to organize your study space for success

Content of this page was provided by: Kendall, S. (2019). SignUpGenius, 15 Organizational Tips for College Students. Retrieved from; https://www.signupgenius.com/college/organization-tips-for-college-students.cfm.

# Assess Your Organizational Skills

# Workspace and Environment

### Tips on Setting Up a Work Space

For individuals starting online courses it is important to set yourself up for success. One area that is very important is a distraction free study work space. Your work space environment should be comfortable, appealing, and a place you can be productive. There are 4 key elements presented on this page and other resources to help you get organized and prepare a distraction free work space and study environment.

720 HD - Time 12:07 - Transcript

## 4 Key Elements of a Successful Work Space

##### Getting Started

- Equip your work space with a computer, printer, power cords, etc.
- Check your course syllabus for each course and look for any extra hardware you might need.
- Have a wired broadband internet connection.
- Have textbooks, pens, pencils, notebooks available.
- Plan for organization – have folders, stacking trays, etc.

##### Organize Your Time

- Be careful to use your time wisely.
- Eliminate interruptions/distractions.
- Learn to say no. Make studying a priority.
- Focus your energy on studying.

##### Remove all Distractions

- Place your phone on silent. Consider also placing your phone in another location.
- Restrict your web surfing (stayfocused, a free Google ext. to assist with web browsing)
- Be careful with any music you play – your mind might wander and focus on the lyrics
- Wear noise-cancelling headphones if you are listening to music

##### Name a Place

- Set aside a space as your student space and make it your online classroom.
- Have a desk or table dedicated to your online studies
- Have adequate lighting to reduce eye strain

### Resources:

- 10 ways to improve your study habits
- Five ways to Build the Workspace That Works for You
- 4 Steps to Get Organized for Online Courses

# Technical Requirements

### Is my equipment up to speed?

###

You may choose to complete online coursework using a range of devices such as a laptop, tablet, notebook, iPad, or a smart phone. Whatever device you choose, it is good to know what type of hardware, software, peripherals, plug-ins, and browsers that best suits your needs and meet the minimum technical specifications of the institutions Learning Management System (LMS).If you are not familiar with technical terms please visit the Glossary of Computer Terms. |

Search the institution's website and course syllabus for specific hardware requirements. The syllabus may provide information for additional hardware.

## Learning Management Systems

### Click the appropriate LMS Platform link below for your institution:

- Blackboard – OS – Browser Checker – Browser Support
- Canvas
- Desire2Learn (D2L)
- Jenzabar eLearning
- Moodle

# Online Readiness Assessment