1. Self-motivation - Students
must be able to direct their own learning environment, fulfill
course requirements, and achieve individual academic
success.
2. Independent learner - The online
environment enables students to learn at their own
pace -- traditional, extended, or accelerated --
relieving the stress of feeling rushed or pressured
and providing enjoyment in the learning process.
3. Computer literate - Although
it is not necessary to have advanced computer skills,
students should possess a working knowledge of
e-mail, the Internet, and basic keyboarding and
word processing skills.
4. Time management - Students must
be able to organize and plan their own best "time
to learn." There is no one best time for everyone,
but the key to learning is to commit the time to
learn.
5. Effective written communication skills
- Students must use electronic e-mail to
communicate with their peers as well as the instructors.
The ability to write clearly in order to communicate
ideas and assignments is very important to student
success as well as a means to inform instructors
of any concerns or problems.
6. Personal commitment - Since
there are no bells that begin and end classes, students
must have a strong desire to learn and achieve knowledge
and skills via online courses. Making a commitment
to learn in this manner is a very personal decision
and requires a strong commitment to participate
in order to achieve academic success.