ONLINE TEST

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Is Distance Learning Right For Me?

How well would Distance Learning courses fit your circumstances and lifestyle? Take some time now to write down your answer for each question and score this test as directed at the end. Be sure and read the explanations about the questions after you score your test.


 1. My need to take this course now is:

High -- I need it immediately for a specific goal.
Moderate -- I could take it on campus later or substitute another course.
Low -- it could be postponed.
   

 2. Feeling that I am part of a class is:

Not particularly necessary to me.
Somewhat important to me.
Very important to me.
   

 3. I would classify myself as someone who:

Often gets things done ahead of time.
Needs reminding to get things done on time.
Puts things off until the last minute or doesn't complete them.
   

 4. Classroom discussion is:

Rarely helpful to me.
Sometimes helpful to me.
Almost always helpful to me.
   

 5. When an instructor hands out directions for an assignment, I prefer:

Figuring out the instructions myself.
Trying to follow the directions on my own, then asking for help as needed.
Having the instructions explained to me.
   

 6. I need faculty comments on my assignments:

Within a few weeks, so I can review what I did.
Within a few days, or I forget what I did.
Right away, or I get very frustrated.
   

 7. Considering my professional and personal schedule, the amount of time I have to work on a Distance Learning course is:

More than enough for an on campus course.
The same as for a class on campus.
Less than for a class on campus.
   

 8. Coming to campus on a regular schedule is:

Extremely difficult for me -- I have commitments during times when classes are offered.
A little difficult, but I can rearrange my priorities to allow for regular attendance on campus.
Easy for me.
   

 9. As a reader, I would classify myself as:

Good -- I usually understand the text without help.
Average -- I sometimes need help to understand the text.
Slower than average.
   

 10. When I need help understanding the subject::

I am comfortable approaching an instructor to ask for clarification.
I am uncomfortable approaching an instructor, but do it anyway.
I never approach an instructor to admit I don't understand something.
   

 

 


The following page was adapted from "Are Telecourses For Me?" and printed in the PBS-Adult Learning Service The Agenda, Spring, 1994, this questionnaire was developed by the Northern Virginia Community College Extended Learning Institute.