Is Online Instruction for You?

Research shows that successful distance learners have certain characteristics. The instruments below take some of that research into account. The questionnaires are not scientific instruments; they are only general guides. If you answer the questions truthfully, however; you will have a better idea of whether you are well-suited for and likely to be successful at learning online.

There are two parts to the assessment. The first questionnaire addresses personal characteristics and preferences concerning learning. The second questionnaire assesses your skill and comfort with technology.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Read the instructions for the Online Readiness Self-Test ONE, then complete the questionnaire as instructed.
2. When you have completed the Self-Test ONE, read the instructions for Self-Test TWO and complete the questionnaire as     instructed. Follow the links, to the typing test or technology requirements, if necessary. Use the "Back"  button on the top    of the screen to return to the Self-Test.
3.Once you have completed both questionnaires, return to the Homepage and follow the link to read the Course Overview.

Online Readiness Self-Test ONE
Distance Education Aptitude and Readiness Scale (DEARS)
(Used with permission of Dr. Bob Kizlik Copyright 2001 Robert Kizlik)

Enter your full name here:
Enter your email address here:
1.
 I believe that knowledge is largely constructed by the learner, and that teachers are more facilitators of learning than dispensers of information.
2.
 I am able to translate learning objectives that have been set for me into objectives that I can meet using my own personal style of learning.
3.
 I take responsibility for my own learning in the courses I take.
4.
 I am regarded by my peers as a self-starter.
5.
 I can stay on task without frequent feedback about my performance.
6.
 I am a person who is curious about many things.
7.
 I often figure out novel ways to solve problems.
8.
 I am motivated to go beyond the minimum requirements in my classes.
9.
 Once I have goals or a set of objectives, I can determine what I need to do to reach them.
10.

I can remember information that I read and do not need to hear it out loud.
11.
 I recognize and know how to use feedback about progress on a learning task that I have undertaken.
12.
 I can follow written directions and don't need to have them explained orally.
13.
 I understand how I learn best and often think of ways I can improve.
14.
 I know what I believe but I am open to other opinions that may be contrary to my beliefs.
15.
 I enjoy learning that is challenging.

Add the numbers in the menu windows. Enter your TOTAL here:   and press the button. A new page with your responses will appear. Use the" Back" button to return to this page to complete Readiness Self-Test TWO.

Assessing The Results
The statements above describe some of the more important characteristics of self-directed learners. Such learners have a certain degree of autonomy that predisposes them to be successful in a variety of learning contexts, including distance learning or distance education. This questionnaire is a non-scientific instrument and is intended only to provide general guidance for those considering taking courses online. By assessing yourself on the DEARS statements above, you should obtain some idea of your predisposition and temperament for successful distance education experiences. 

The number you put on the Total line above is explained below. The maximum score you could obtain is 75. The higher the number, the greater your potential to benefit from distance education experiences.
55-75: You should have no difficulty with an online course. You are a fairly autonomous person.
45-54: You will probably do well in an online course, but you will have to remind yourself to stay on task.
30-44: An online course will be a challenge. You are likely to miss the structure and interaction of the classroom a great deal.
29 and below: Distance education is probably not a good idea for you!


Online Readiness Self-Test TWO
Enter your full name here:
Instructions: Read each question and answer whether the statement is true or false.
1.

When faced with frustrating computer problems, I maintain a sense of calm and contine to search for solutions.
 True False

2.
 I can type 30 words a minute. (Take the typing test, if you are uncertain.)
True False
3.
 I have an email address.
 True False
4.
 The Internet browser I am using, like Netscape or Explorer, has Java language enabled.
True False
5.
 I have a computer at home that is connected to the Internet by an Internet Service Provider or I can access such a computer elsewhere.
True False
6.
 I have met the recommended hardware and software for this course.
True False   If uncertain, try this link: Hardware/software requirements.
7.
 I know the hours and locations of the CSUN General Access Computer Labs.
True False
8.
 I know how to copy and paste between different programs.
True False
9.

I regularly have 7 to 9 hours per week to spend on this course in addition to the class meeting time.
True False
10.

I have specific days/times available to work on my online course.
True False
11.

I realize that the work of an online class is equal to or greater than that of a regular course on campus.
True False
12

I realize that course requirements and due dates are there for good reasons, and I feel I can structure my time effectively to meet them.
True False

Make certain that you have checked a response for each statement in the Online Readiness Questionnaire TWO, then press the button.

After you submit, a new page with your responses will appear. Use the" Back" button to return to this page to assess your results.
Assessing The Results

The more statements to which you respond"True," in the Online Readiness Questionnaire TWO, the greater the likelihood that you will be successful at and will enjoy an online course. Items 9 through 10 are particularly important in this regard.

Return to Homepage