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Taking an online course requires possibly more self-discipline, technology skills, and communication skills than taking a traditional face-to-face course. Answer the following questions to determine if you are ready for online learning.

Technology

Yes No	Do you have daily access to a computer with a broadband Internet connection (other than computers at your college)?
Yes No	Does your computer meet or exceed the requirements listed on the RPCC Moodle Help Page?
Yes No	Do you know who to contact if you have problems with Moodle or your RPCC Student Email account?
Yes No	Does your computer have all the programs and software required for the course(s) you want to take?
Yes No	Do you have computing skills that will enable you to function efficiently in an online course (downloading and saving files, creating folders, changing settings on your computer, typing and word processing, sending email with attachments, etc.)?
Yes No	Do you have Internet skills that will enable you to navigate and access specific URLs, use the online RPCC Library resources, and login to secure web pages?
Yes No	Do you have an email account and the ability to create and send email messages with attachments?
Yes No	Will you be able to access and navigate your online course(s) as often as required (at least four times a week) in order to interact with the instructor(s) and/or other students in your course(s)?

Communication

Yes No	Are you able to communicate with others effectively using online technologies, such as email programs, chat rooms, blogs, and discussion boards?
Yes No	Can you express yourself clearly and concisely in written messages and assignments?
Yes No	Will you schedule time to access your course(s) regularly in order to provide timely responses to your instructor(s) and/or other students?
Yes No	Will you ask questions when you don't understand assignments or instructions from your instructor(s)?
Yes No	Do you have good reading comprehension skills so that you can effectively read and understand directions, reading assignments, and information in your textbook?

Motivation

Yes No	Are you self-motivated with good time-management skills (not needing to be reminded of due dates, etc.)?
Yes No	Can you ignore online distractions (social networking, games, instant messaging, etc.) while working on your online course work?
Yes No	Can you take time away from distractions at home (television, family, etc.) in order to complete your online course work?

Participation

Yes No	Will you meet the online course requirements listed in your course's syllabus (frequent assignments, frequent communication, group assignments, and a significant amount of reading)?
Yes No	Do you understand that frequent participation will be required in each of your online courses and you will need to dedicate at least five hours per online course per week in order to be successful?
Yes No	Do you have access to an alternative computer that meets all requirements in case something happens to your computer, so that your participation will not be affected?

Did you answer "No" to any of these? If so, you may not be ready to enroll in an online course. Your success in an online course depends on your reading comprehension, your technology skills, your ability to communicate in an electronic environment, and your ability to manage your time well.

If you think you are ready for the challenge of online learning, complete the RPCC Online Course Contract before registering for an online course.

Access the Online Course Contract HERE.