Individuals that are too busy or too far away from a college or university campus are gravitating to online courses. Tuition and fees are the same for both traditionally delivered classes and online or hybrid classes at Lone Star College System
Distance Learning classes take place in a unique, online environment. This format is very different from the traditional classroom setting that most students have experienced. When a student thinks about taking a distance learning class, there are many factors to consider. Please investigate the online tools linked below to evaluate the compatibility of your needs and learning style with a distance learning course:
Learning Style Comparison
How do the attributes for a DL student compare to a student more suited to the traditional classroom?
Characteristics
of Students who might prefer Distance Learning Courses
|
Characteristics
of Students who might prefer Traditional Courses
|
|
Have
excellent time management skills |
Work
better in structured environment |
| Enjoy
communicating with others through writing and using listservs, discussion
groups, and email |
Like
instructional and social interactions of face-to-face classroom |
| Learn
best by reading or watching |
Learn
better by listening and speaking |
| Prefer
not to drive to campus and can commit additional time for completing
and submitting assignments |
Able
to commit the time for commuting, attending 3 to 4 hours of class
per week per class |
| Have
heavy work or family responsibilities |
Able to attend
class on campus |
| Have
convenient and reliable access to the Internet |
Have difficulty
obtaining regular access to the Internet and e-mail |
| Are
self-motivated |
Are
motivated by others |
| Prefer
to work at own pace and at flexible or non-traditional times |
Need
definite deadlines |
| Have
some computer skills and enjoy using the Internet |
Are
uncomfortable using a computer |
| Enjoy
being in control of own learning |
Like
more direction/structure provided by instructor |
Is Online Learning for Me? from Colorado Community College
Submit high/medium/low answers to gauge your DL aptitude and receive success tips.
Is Online Learning for Me? from UCLA
This quiz progresses through different stages of DL readiness. Receive feedback from UCLA on each question.
Online Self-Evaluation Quiz from the University of Illinois
Submit yes/no answers to your distance learning preferences to receive customized feedback about your probability of success in a DL class.