Self Test

Are Distance Learning Courses for Me?

1.	My need to take this course is:
	High - I need to take it immediately for diploma/degree, job, or other important reason
	Moderate - I could take it on campus later or substitute another course
	Low - It's a personal interest that 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
	Put things off until the last minute

4.	My family and friends will:
	Encourage and help me to make my studies a priority
	Be sympathetic, but may be a source of distractions
	Will continue to expect as much of my time as always

5.	My study environment will be:
	A quiet and dedicated space where distractions will be minimal and materials can be left without fear of them being messed up or misplaced
	Relatively free from distractions
	Noisy or where distractions will be frequent

6.	When an instructor hands out directions for an assignment, I prefer:
	Figuring out the instructions myself
	Trying to follow the direction on my own, then asking for help as needed
	Having the instructions explained to me

7.	I need faculty comments on my assignments:
	Within two 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

8.	Considering my professional and personal schedule, the amount of time I have to work on distance education courses is:
	More than enough for a campus class or distance education course
	The same as for a class on campus
	Less than for a class on campus

9.	When I am asked to use VCRs, computers, voice mail, or other technologies new to me:
	I look forward to learning new skills
	I feel apprehensive, but try it anyway
	I put it off and try to avoid it

10.	As a reader, I would classify myself as:
	Good - I usually understand the text without help, read quickly, and concentrate well
	Average - I sometimes need help to understand the text
	Slower than average (have difficulty with comprehension and/or reading speed)

Adapted from Oregon Community College, Distance Education Consortium.