Asynchronous Distance Learning Courses - ONL -

Before you get started 

Make sure that distance learning is right for you. Taking a distance learning math course requires a lot of commitment and you are in charge of your learning in a different way than a traditional lecture class.

Questions you will want to consider:

• Is the course a subject that you are strong in? If the subject is one that you dislike or are not proficient in, you will probably not enjoy working on it alone.

• Do you have a sufficient amount of time to succeed and complete the course? If you are trying to squeeze this course into an already hectic schedule, then you might have a tendency to give your distance learning course last priority.  There is no one to remind you otherwise except yourself.

• Will you miss the interaction with a teacher and peers? Students in telecourses sometimes feel isolated.  Although students in Internet courses are usually in regular communication with teachers and peers, they sometimes miss the real-time, face-to-face interaction.

• Do you ask questions immediately when you don't understand something? Or, is it often the case that you find yourself frustrated before asking for help?  Feelings of isolation can amplify feelings of frustration or discouragement.  Do you know how to head off and/or deal with those feelings? The usual answer is to get help before you are overwhelmed, but you have to know when to ask.

• Is this a course with a support course? A 5 hour math course can feel like a part time job, are you ready to commit your time to this?

If you still feel that a distance learning math course is right for you, once you are registered for you course it will become available to you one week prior to the start of the semester and are required to complete a mandatory orientation.  As you read through the syllabus and read through the Start here section, make yourself aware of the assignments and expectations that I have for you.  Make sure you have at least 6 - 12 hours a week to devote to a 3 hour ONL course.  It is important that you make the right decision on whether to stay in this distance learning section because once you get started and realize that you are better suited for a lecture course it’s usually too late.