Virtual Virginia Beach e-Learning
Profile of a Successful Online Student

Students who choose to participate in online courses need to examine their personal skills and aptitudes for taking a class online. The following attributes will greatly contribute to a student's success:

Self-motivation - Students should be able to manage and direct their own learning environment and methods to fulfill course requirements and achieve individual academic success.

Independent learner - Successful online students are self-starters and motivated. They work well with the flexibility that the 24/7 any time--any place format provides. Students should be able to learn on their own and at an accelerated pace without direct supervision.

Computer literate - Although it is not essential to have advanced computer skills, students should possess a working knowledge of e-mail, the Internet, as well as basic keyboarding skills.

Time management - Students must be able to organize and plan their own best "time to learn." There is no one best time for everyone, but the key to success is to make the time to learn.

Effective communication skills - Students must use e-mail and discussion forums to communicate with their peers as well as the instructors. The ability to read and to write clearly in order to communicate ideas and assignments is essential. Also, sharing reflections - of their own work as well as their classmates' - is a crucial component of a successful experience. This method provides the learner with rapid feedback as well as a means to inform instructors of any concerns or problems that they may be experiencing.

Personal commitment - Because there are no bells that begin and end classes, students must have a strong desire to learn and acquire knowledge and skills via online courses. Making a commitment to learn in this manner is a very personal decision and requires a strong desire to perform in order to achieve academic success. Overall, the staff believes that every individual who has the motivation and self-direction to take the courses will achieve success in an "any time--any place" virtual environment.

How do I know if online learning is for me?

• I am interested in this type of learning.
• I meet the profile of a successful online student.
• I have reliable access to the appropriate computer hardware and Internet access.

Take this interactive survey to see if online learning is for you: http://shiponline.ship.edu/tech_check1_quiz.htm

PLEASE NOTE: The e-mail link at the end of the survey does not access the Virtual Virginia Beach e-Learning Program. Contact us at .