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Online courses are an innovative development in higher education that uses technology to facilitate learning without the limitations of time or place. Online students use state-of-the-art technology to connect to faculty members and coursemates. One great advantage of online education is that it gives students the flexibility in the scheduling of their coursework commitments.
Success in online courses depends on self-discipline and the ability to learn without face-to-face interaction. KCC online courses maintain the same rigor and high standards that its classroom courses do. Academic progress is established and maintained through regular course participation.
Online students need to be prepared to interact with their faculty member and coursemates in writing. Strong reading and writing skills in the English language are critical and self-discipline is essential.
KCC online courses are not easier than traditional college courses. The online learning process is normally accelerated and requires commitment on the student's part. Online students need to be self-motivated and self-disciplined. Online students must also posses the necessary technical skills to navigate the course. The successful student will view online courses as a convenient way to receive their education - not an easier way.
You will find it VERY demanding and difficult to learn the technology while trying to take an online course and learn the course content at the same time. If you are not already very comfortable with word processing and the Internet, wait to take an online course. Instructors are prepared to help you with the course content, but they cannot teach you computer literacy skills at the same time. If you cannot navigate the Web, attach a file to an e-mail, and create documents in a word processor, you are not ready for online learning at KCC.
The ability to access your online course from almost anywhere at any time does not eliminate structure and deadlines. There are just as many deadlines in an online course than in a face-to-face course. Online courses, just as face-to-face courses, require you to be fully aware of the instructor's expectations and requirements.
Students who complete an online course typically enjoy the experience and report the following advantages:
- You get the same high-quality instruction and course content that you demand, but without a fixed class schedules and travel time to get a class.
- You login at the best time for you--even if you are an early riser or a night owl. Some courses include "set" meeting times. These might be an online course chat or in a classroom on campus. See the course schedule in KCConnect to see details of course requirements.
- You often get more personalized communication with the instructor.
- There are also significant additional demands placed on the student.
- Students must be highly motivated to learn.
- You need more self-discipline than required in most other formats. Highly motivated and self-directed are key phrases that describe students who are successful in online courses.
- You need at-home access to a certain level of technology. KCC has computers that are available for your use, but they might not be accessible when it is best for you.
- Most courses require regular participation throughout the semester. Check the specific requirements for each class. You can expect to spend at least seven to 15 hours per week working for a typical three-credit hour course.
Visit the following link to help you find out if you are really ready:
Am I ready for online learning?
You don't have to be a computer wiz to take an online course, but you will need some basic technical skills to be successful. You will need to be quite comfortable with your computer system and have a basic knowledge of software tools such as a word processor, email, an Internet browser, and search engines.
Are you ready for an Internet course? A successful online learner:
- Has access to a reliable computer and Internet provider.
- Is able to communicate effectively through writing.
- Is a self-motivated learner.
- Has the self-discipline necessary for success.
- Has as much time to commit to an Internet course as to a traditional course.
- Is able to successfully send and receive e-mail messages.
- Is comfortable with using an Internet browser to navigate the Internet and locate information.
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