AM I READY FOR DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSES?

1. I can easily create files, save files and manage files on my computer?	Yes No
2. I have access (at my Home) to a computer that meets the minimum requirements (see reverse).	Yes No
3. I understand and feel comfortable knowing that I will not receive immediate feedback on course assignments and / or tests.	Yes No
4. I am proficient with sending and receiving email.	Yes No
5. I know how to download and install software.	Yes No
6. I have at least 6 to 9 hours per week to spend on each online class that I plan to register for.	Yes No
7. I know how to conduct research and searches on the Internet.	Yes No
8. I know how to copy and paste.	Yes No
9. I can meet deadlines with no problems.	Yes No
10. I read and write well.	Yes No

Total the Number of “YES” Responses __________

If you scored:

0-3: Think carefully before taking an online or hybrid course. This type of class delivery may not be the best option to meet your educational goals. Talk to your advisor before making a final decision.

4-6: Online courses MAY fit your learning style but hybrid courses are likely a better fit for you. Talk with your advisor about the differences between online and the two types of hybrid courses.

7-10: You should feel comfortable taking online and hybrid courses. We hope to see you in RCC’s online classes soon.

Guidelines for successful online learning

Please keep the following guidelines in mind while participating in online learning.

Participate in course orientation activities.
Set goals and work independently.
Begin course assignments within the first week of the semester/course start date.
Set aside a specific time on a routine basis for study and keep up with assignments.
Contact and respond to the instructor by email promptly with questions about any aspect of the course.
Be able to read assignments written at the college level.
Have the necessary computer hardware and software.
Use word processing to respond effectively to writing assignments and online discussion forums.
Use the Internet to locate course materials and download files where necessary.
Maintain anti-virus software on your computer.

Computer Requirements
To succeed in distance education classes, it is highly recommended that students have access to a computer (ideally at their home) with reliable, high-speed internet. See the recommended and minimum requirements to ensure that your computer equipment and software meets at least the minimum requirements listed below.

	Recommended	Minimum
Operating System	Windows 2000/XP/VISTA Mac OS X	Windows 98 Mac OS 9
Hardware	Windows: Pentium 3 600mhz or higher; or a Macintosh: G3 or higher. 190 MB RAM or more. 1024x768 Screen resolution or higher. Sound capable.	Windows: Pentium 3 333 mhz; or a Macintosh G3. 128 MB RAM. 800x600 Screen resolution. Sound capable.
Internet Connection	Internet DSL or Cable (broadband) connection to the Internet .	56k connection to the Internet.
Web Browser	Latest Firefox or Internet Explorer browser for Windows. Latest Safari or Internet Explorer browser for Macintosh.	Internet Explorer 5.5 for Windows, Firefox 3 browser or higher. Safari 1.2 or Internet Explorer 5.5 for Macintosh.
Plug-ins	Latest Flash Plug-in. Latest QuickTime Plug-in. Real Audio player. Acrobat reader.	Flash 8 Plug-in. QuickTime 6 Plug-in. Real Audio player. Acrobat reader.
Other Software	Microsoft Word Viewer. Microsoft Excel Viewer. Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer.	Microsoft Word Viewer. Microsoft Excel Viewer. Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer.