orientation

= Orientation to Online Learning =

There are many things you want to consider here.
 * What technology skills should my students have in order to be successful in my online course?
 * What soft skills should my students have in order to be successful in my online course?
 * If students are missing these skills, can or should I provide ways for these students to obtain these skills?

In addition to what kinds of supports you need to consider, I would also advise to look and see what is out there. A quick Google search for student readiness and online learning revealed two useful resources that you may want to use in your own online course:
 * [|Student Online Readiness Tool (SORT)]
 * [|Online Student Support Services: A Best Practices Monograph - Determining Student Readiness for Online Instruction]

There are many other useful resources out there - both for you and your students. Also consider a readiness quiz that students can take. These can generally be found on the web by searchng for something to the effect of "Is Online Learning For Me?" The one that we use in the Instructional Technology program reads:

//Are you Ready for Distance Learning?

This short survey is intended to help you assess your personal readiness for success in the online courses that make up the Wayne State University Instructional Technology Distance Learning program. There are no right or wrong answers. The results are for your use only, so please be as honest and accurate in your responses as possible.//

//1. I understand that online courses will require at least as much time per week as traditional courses and am confident that I can arrange my schedule to accommodate my course work.// //Yes No Unsure

2. I understand that I will be required to meet specific due dates for assignments and activities in my online courses and am confident that I have the time management and organizational skills to do so.// //Yes No Unsure

3. I am capable of trouble shooting minor technological problems when they arise and seeking assistance when necessary without becoming overwhelmed.// //Yes No Unsure

4. I understand that the primary means of communication with the instructor and my classmates in online courses will be discussion boards, e-mail and chat rooms. I feel comfortable expressing my opinions and questions in these written forums.// //Yes No Unsure

5. I am capable of receiving and comprehending instructions, course content and instructor feedback in written format.// //Yes No Unsure

6. I will have regular access to a computer, dependable internet connection, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and virus protection software while taking courses.// //Yes No Unsure

7. I am proficient in the use of the internet, am capable of communicating using e-mail, and can create documents and presentations using word processing and presentation software.// //Yes No Unsure//