Over the last several years, the choices you have about your education have changed dramatically. While you have had the option of deciding between day and evening classes, now the decision is also between a traditional classroom course and an online course. The flexibility that online learning affords is empowering; however, the decision to enroll in an online class should not be made without considering the unique aspects of learning in an online environment. Ultimately the decision to enroll in an online course is yours, but before you do consider these questions:

Is your learning style conducive to online learning?

Everyone learns differently. Some students need the face-to- face interaction of a traditional classroom, while other students work well if they have the time to sit down independently and work through a problem. Take the learning style assessment to determine if your learning style will be a good fit for online learning.

Do you have the time available to commit to online learning?

While one of the lures of online learning is that you have the flexibility to complete your assignments when they are convenient for you, most students find that online learning takes more time than the traditional classroom. Take the time survey to determine if you have the available time online learning may require.

Do you have the necessary computer skills and hardware and software?

Even the best students will not succeed in the online environment if they don't have the necessary tools. Rest assured, you don't need to be a computer wizard to succeed. Take the computer hardware and software to determine if you have the necessary tools to be successful.

Do your expectations of online learning match what online learning has to offer?

What do you think online learning involves? Take a look at the expectations of online learning and see if they match your beliefs.

Is the course you are interested in available with an online option?

Here is the most recent list of courses that are available with an online option. Remember to check with registration to make sure the course you are interested in hasn't been recently added.

Will you be comfortable with the Springboard! environment?

The University of Akron uses the Desire2Learn platform for its online learning classes. Our branded version of that software is called Springboard! If you are unsure if you have the vocabulary or skills necessary to take an online class, browse through the Springboard! documentation and see if you understand the mechanics of how you will communicate with your classmates and instructor. This information and the Atomic Learning tutorials in ZipLine will also show you how you will turn in assignments and take quizzes.

This website should address some of your concerns and questions as you contemplate taking an online course.
If you have additional questions, please contact the instructor listed for the course.

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