Things You Need to Know

An online class requires slightly different skills and personal study techniques then a traditional face-to-face class. Because of this slight difference there are a few things you will need to know.

Technical Skills

Your instructor in your online course will expect you to know how to:

• Use email
• Send attachments
• Send pictures
• Create and save documents in Microsoft Word
• Download programs from the Internet
• Participate in an online discussion forum
• Communicate effectively in writing
• Use the Etudes course management system.

Additional requirements may be necessary, depending on the course. If you'd like help with any of these skills, the Etudes Tutorial is a good resource.

Equipment Needed

• Regular access to a good computer (PC or Mac) with an Internet connection
• A supported web browser such as Internet Explorer 7.0 or Firefox 3x
• An active email account (found for free at Yahoo, Gmail, etc.)
• Access to a printer

Personal Skills to Succeed

• Good time management
• Strong reading and writing ability
• Motivation and discipline
• Self reliance
• Ability to problem solve
• Willingness to get help when needed