Characteristics of the Successful On-Line Student

Self-directed and Self-motivated
Distance learning students need to be self-directed and self-motivated in their approach to learning. The learner has to assume a greater share of the responsibility for learning that takes place in an online environment. Professors assume the role of facilitator and guide for exploration of a subject and not the dispenser of the information.

Visual Learner
Unlike the traditional classroom where students receive auditory, visual and non-verbal input, the virtual classroom is primarily text based. Communication occurs almost solely via the written work. Print materials are the primary source of directions and information in on-line courses. Distance learning provides less opportunity for verbal interaction. Because some students learn best by listening and interacting with other students and instructors, if you are dependent upon auditory input, you could be at a severe disadvantage in an on-line course.

Assertive
There are fewer ways to be noticed in an Internet class. You must make yourself known by introducing yourself, participating in discussions, and e-mailing the professor. You will have to take the initiative without the prompts provided by regular classroom interaction.

Good Writing Skills
In the Virtual classroom, nearly all communication is written so it is critical that students have the ability to express themselves effectively in writing. How you communicate your ideas is the most crucial element of success in Internet courses. This is the main source of information available to the instructor. There are no non-verbal cues to send or to receive; there are no voice tones or inflections to interpret. In many instances, the instructor knows you only through your written words.

Persistent
An Internet student must realize and accept that this is a different learning environment and that things will not always go as expected. Multiple attempts may be common before tasks are successfully completed. There will be occasions when you are confused and uncertain of what to do, when you don't fully understand something, when you have computer and/or network problems. You must persist and refuse to give up when these things happen.

Problem Solver
Things will go wrong. You will be more successful if you attempt to resolve a problem that occurs rather than waiting for assistance. When you run into an obstacle, you must find solutions that allow you to fulfill course requirements. For example, if you can't e-mail your material, send it by fax. If you can't fax it, deliver it by hand.

Ability to Organize and Prioritize Work
On-line courses require you to structure your schedule, balancing your time around the assignments and requirement of the class. It will be important to review the things you have to do, prioritize the list, and develop a schedule setting deadlines for accomplishing tasks. Then just do it.

Ability to Stay on Task
It is very easy to get distracted by the "neat" and "fun" sites and to find yourself wandering through cyberspace instead of getting your assignments finished. There are fewer external cues or prompts to return you to the task at hand like in a regular classroom setting. You will be required to preview, study, and review course material without the direct supervision of the professor or the stimulation of classroom interaction.