Click here to return to DL home.

Are DL classes for me?

If you're not sure if distance learning classes are for you, consider the following statements. If you can agree with all of these statements, then the DL option may be right for you.

Take a quick test!

• I have regular access to a computer and the internet. I know how to use a browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape.
  RCC uses the Blackboard delivery system for DL courses over the internet. You will need consistent, regular Internet access in order to be successful in an online course.
  
  
• I can send and receive e-mail messages, search the internet, and write with a word processing program.
  You need a current email address and you need to know how to use email. This is important so that you can communicate with your instructor and your instructor can communicate with you. In many courses, you will be required to submit your written work electronically, through Blackboard. You'll need to be comfortable using a word processor, such as Microsoft Word.
  
  
• I have access to all software needed to take the online course I'm interested in, or I will have time to come to campus to use a computer lab with the software I need.
  As mentioned above, it's likely you'll need to be able to use a word processor to be successful in an online course. Additionally, other courses may require software that you'll need access to. For example, if you're taking a spreadsheet course online, and you don't want to make regular trips to campus to work on lab assignments, you'll need ready access to a computer with a current version of Microsoft Excel. You'll need to check individual courses to determine what software is needed.
  
  
• I am a self-motivated learner. I can work on my own and follow a schedule without the structure of regular class meetings. I can keep up with my assignments. I don't procrastinate (at least, not to a great extent).
  Many students enjoy online courses because it allows them to set their own hours, perhaps late at night or on weekends. Other students miss the structure of regular class meetings and find it hard to keep up without consistent face-to-face contact with instructors and other students. You'll have to decide which group you belong to.
  
  
• If required, I am able to come to campus to take an exam or do lab work as long as I know the dates and times in advance.
  Some instructors offer exams online. Others require that students take exams on campus in a monitored situation. If you're required to take an exam on campus, your instructor will provide a "window" test period that will allow some flexibility in completing your on-campus tests.
  
  
• I understand that a distance learning course requires at least as much time as a classroom course.
  Online courses allow great flexibility in deciding when you want to complete your course work, but it still has to be done. Many students will find that online courses actually require more time, but enjoy the flexibility of being able to schedule that time to fit their schedule.
  

If, after the above evaluation, you decide DL courses are right for you, you need the following:

• As mentioned above, you need regular access to a computer that is connected to the internet. You need an up-to-date web browser, such as Internet Explorer Version 7 or 8 or Firefox.
  
  
• You need Microsoft Word or a compatible word processor. Microsoft Word is RCC's standard word processor, so files that you submit to your instructor need to be in this format. Many word processors, such as Corel WordPerfect or Google Documents, allow you to save files as Word documents. You'll need to check the software that you're using and make sure it will do this. If you submit files that are not in the Word format, it's likely your instructor will not be able to open and read them.
  
  
• Other software that is required for your particular course. Check with the instructor of the course if you're not sure what software and version is needed.