Is a blended/online College Algebra course for you?
How much time does a student need to spend studying for this course?

For this online class it is recommended to spend a minimum of nine hours a week for a regular semester (Fall or Spring) and 24 hours a week for a Summer I or II term.

What is expected of you?

You are expected to log onto the course management system and study, take quizzes, complete the homework assignments and labs, and take exams (in the Testing Centers) according to the course calendar.

Survey

The following survey may help you decide whether on Online Math course is right for you. Please choose one answer for each question below.

1. I usually complete homework and other assignments

a. on time
b. at the last minute
c. past the deadline

2. I am considering taking an online class

a. because the flexibility fits into my schedule
b. to add another course to a fill load
c. because I can never seem to make it to my campus classes

3. In doing Math homework

a. I can often do it with little or no additional help
b. I frequently require tutoring or the help of the solutions manual
c. I rarely finish without help

4. If I am having difficulty with an assignment

a. I get help as soon as possible, usually within a couple of days
b. I put it off until the week of the exam
c. I hope it won’t be worth too much on the test and concentrate on things I can do

5. Mathematics Textbooks

a. easy for me to follow
b. easy to follow, but I would prefer to have the instructor explain them to me
c. confusing and frustrating

6. When it comes to Math, I consider myself to be

a. naturally good at it
b. calm and determined
c. “math-phobic”

7. When I turn in work

a. I can move on to the next assignment while waiting for feedback
b. I need feedback within a few days
c. I need immediate feedback

8. Face to face meetings with my instructor and my classmates

a. are not important to me
b. are helpful but not essential
c. are very important to me

9. When asked to utilize new skills and technologies as a learner,

a. I embrace the challenge and enjoy trying new things
b. I am hesitant to take risks, but I am persistent and determined
c. I am very uncomfortable and need someone to help or explain things to me

10. As a learner, I would classify myself as being

a. highly independent
b. somewhat independent
c. dependent

Score the Survey
Please score your answers by giving yourself three points for every “a”, two points for every “b”, and zero points for every “c”.

Analyzing the Score:
If you scored between 20-30, you are probably suited for an online class. You are an independent learner who doesn’t need constant supervision, and you have the self-discipline to complete tasks on time.

If you scored between 10-20, you probably need to think very carefully about signing up for an online class. If you do decide to take an online class, please realize that you will probably have to adjust your learning strategies to maximize your potential for success.

If you scored between 0-10, a traditional classroom course might be a better fit for you.

Important Note:
Your level of success in any class is determined by a multitude of factors. The survey above is meant to give you an indication of your aptitude for online classes and it is in no way a guarantee for success or failure in any class or program.


Other students' advice to prospective online students

Below is listed some advice from students that have previously taken online classes.

  • You need to be a self-learner to be successful.
  • Keep up with the assignments!
  • It’s definitely a great experience, but make sure you stay on top of everything.
  • Take it if you if you work well independently, but not if you just want to “save” time.
  • Make sure to do the assignments on time so that you have enough time to get extra help you may need before the quizzes.
  • That you really have to do the work and not fall behind.
  • Definitely seek help.
  • Have a regular schedule of study time for the class. Even if it’s at 2:00 A.M. it is your time for class; don’t “cut” class.
  • Use school e-mail for school work.
  • Check the Announcements at least every other day.
  • Read everything on the course web site, even if this is not your first online class. Each professor is different.
  • If special software is required, install it early, before you need it for the first assignment.
  • Print all the material and make a notebook like you would do for a “regular” class.
  • Talk to your classmates. Make either virtual or face-to-face study dates.

Page generated August 2004. Last modified on January 4, 2014.