Is Online Learning Right for Me?

At Kingsborough Online, we know that online learning can be fun, challenging and rewarding. But we also know that online learning might not work for everyone all the time. As you try to decide whether online learning will work for you, it s helpful to reflect on the following four questions:

Why Study Online? 
What Should I Expect?  
What Technology Will I Need?
How Can I Be Successful?

Below, we've provided some information to help guide your reflections.

Why Study Online?: There are many reasons to take an online course.  Perhaps it s difficult to fit your class schedule around your life. Maybe you enjoy interacting online, especially at odd times of day or night.  You may just be curious and want to dip a toe in the online waters. Maybe all of these sound familiar or maybe none of them do.  But knowing what drives you to take courses online will help you stay focused and motivated.

What to Expect?:  The more you know about what it s like to take an online course, the more you will be able to make a decision that s best for you.    An online course is neither better or worse than taking a face to face class, but it IS different. The video, Introduction to Online Learning provides some insights about online courses.

What Technology will I need?: Although you will be able to access course materials on your phone, tablet, or computer, there are some things you should know  about your equipment, browsers  and software that will optimize your online experience.  The video Getting Tech Ready explains the technological equipment and skills you ll need to take a course online at Kingsborough.

How to Be Successful?: Research on online learning tells us that the most successful students possess some or all of the following qualities:

• Self-motivated and willing to accept responsibility for their own learning,
• Self-disciplined, able to budget their time effectively and willing to stick to deadlines,
• Comfortable with technology, especially web-based and internet technologies,
• Willing to accept the challenge of being an independent learner,
• Willing to take the initiative and contact their instructor when they have questions or concerns regarding the course,
• Able to communicate well in writing,

You may recognize yourself in some of these qualities.  But even if you don t, online courses might still be your best option you. Knowing your needs, habits, preferences and strengths as a student will not only help you decide whether to take an online course but will also prepare you to succeed if you do take one.

Still not sure? Please call 718-368-6995 or email KCConline @kbcc.cuny.edu to talk to someone about your decision.