Are Distance Learning Courses for Me?
Let this questionnaire help you decide!

Circle one answer for each question and score as directed.

1. My need to take this course is:

• a. High -- I need it immediately for degree, job, or other important reasons.
• b. Moderate -- I could take it on-campus later or substitute another course.
• c. Low -- It's a personal interest that could be postponed.

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

• a. Not particularly necessary to me.
• b. Somewhat important to me.
• c. Very important to me.

3. I would classify myself as someone who:

• a. Often gets things done ahead of time.
• b. Needs reminding to get things done on time.
• c. Puts things off until the last minute.

4. Classroom discussion is:

1. a. Rarely helpful to me.
2. b. Sometimes helpful to me.
3. c. Almost always helpful to me.

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

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

6. I need faculty comments on my assignments:

1. a. Within a few weeks so I can review what I did
2. b. Within a few days or I forget what I did.
3. c. 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:

• a. More than enough for a campus class or a distance learning class.
• b. The same as for a class on campus.
• c. Less than for a class on campus.

8. When I am asked to use iPODs, DVD players, computers, or other technologies new to me:

1. a. I look forward to learning new skills.
2. b. I feel apprehensive but try anyway.
3. c. I put it off or try to avoid it.

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

1. a. Good -- I usually understand the text without help
2. b. Average -- I sometimes need help to understand the text.
3. c. Slower than average.

10. If I have to go on campus to take exams or complete work,

• a. I can go to campus any time.
• b. I may miss some lab assignments or exam deadlines if campus labs are not open evenings and weekends.
• b. I will have difficulty getting to campus, even in the evening and on weekends.

Add 3 points for each "A" that you circled, 2 points for each "B", and 1 point for each "C".

If you scored 20 or over, a distance learning class is a real possibility for you.

If you scored between 11 and 20, distance learning classes may work for you, but you may need to make a few adjustments in your schedule and study habits to succeed. 

If you scored 10 or less, distance learning courses may not currently be the best alternative for you.  Talk to your faculty advisor of the Distance Education Coordinator.