Online Learning

What does it take to be a successful online learner?

• A proactive, self-motivated learning style
• Good time-management skills
• Basic computer skills
• High-speed internet connection
• Interact with your classmates
• Establish good study habits and stick to them

Is Online Learning Right for you?
The idea that people learn differently is venerable and probably had its origin with the ancient Greeks (Wratcher, Morrison, Riley & Scheirton, 1997). Student performance may be related to learning preferences or styles as learners. Students may also self-select into or away from distance learning classes based on their learning preferences. This gives rise to the question "Are there differences in learning styles between students who enroll into a distance education class and their equivalent on-campus counterparts?" In may cases the answer is, yes.

So what makes a successful Online student? In general, the online student should possess the following qualities:

1. Be open minded about sharing life, work and educational experiences as part of the learning process.
2. Be able to communicate through writing.
3. Be self-motivated and self-disciplined.
4. Be willing to "speak up" if problems arise.
5. Be able to meet the minimum requirements for the program.
6. Accept critical thinking and decision making as part of the learning process.
7. Have practically unlimited access to a computer and internet service.
8. Be able to think ideas through before responding.
9. Feel that high quality learning can take place without going to a traditional classroom.
10. Be willing and able to commit to 8 to 9 hours per week per course.

Technology Requirements:

Hardware:

• A PC running a Microsoft Windows Operating System (XP, Vista, or Windows 7; or Mac OS X with the operating systems minimum requirements for processor, memor, and hard drive--see the Microsoft or Apple website for minimum requirements)
• At least 10.0 GB of free hard-drive space (additional space may be needed for multimedia files)
• 1024 x 768 monitor with a 16-bit or greater video card (24-bit preferred)
• DVD-ROM drive or CD-ROM
• Sound card with speakers and microphone & video camera (for selected courses)

Internet/Email:

• An Internet service provider (ISP)
• A dedicated, reliable 128 Kbps or faster Internet connection
• An email address and account will be issued to all  University students for use within their courses

RWU Online uses the Bridges Learming Management sysem. Learn more about Bridges Learming Management sysem.