The Learners: Distance Learning Survey

Does distance learning make sense for you and your students? Take a distance learning survey to be sure.

Teacher Survey

As an instructor, answer each of the following yes/no questions.

• Do you plan ahead?
  
• Are you flexible?
  
• Are you “online” 24/7?
  
• Are you comfortable with online interaction?
  
• Are you willing to accommodate individual differences?
  
• Are you comfortable dealing with techie emergencies?
  
• Do you enjoy exploring new technology and teaching options?
  
• Do you have skills in instructional materials development?
  
• Are you willing to constantly update and revise materials?
  
• Are you willing to invest twice as much time in preparation and teaching as you do in a traditional classroom?

If most of your answers are “YES,” then online courses are a good choice for you.

A PDF version of the Characteristics of Online Instructors is available for printing.

Student Survey

As a student, answer each of the following yes/no questions.

• Do you have reliable access to Internet?
  
• Do you have basic technology skills (i.e., web searching, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, sending attachments)?
  
• Are you a self-starter and self-motivated learner?
  
• Do you work well independently?
  
• Do you feel comfortable asking for help through email or on forums when you don’t understand?
  
• Are you comfortable working and communicating with people you have never seen face-to-face?
  
• Are you comfortable with online reading and interaction?
  
• Are you willing to work hard (i.e., investment of time, effort) to learn?
  
• Is your personal schedule incompatible with traditional offerings?
  
• Is your personal schedule flexible enough for online learning?

If most of your answers are “YES,” then online courses are a good choice for you.

Online Surveys

There are many distance learning surveys online. Explore some of the following examples:

• Assessment Survey from the Center for Independent Learning
• Distance Learning Readiness Survey
• Distance Learning Survey at Colorado Mountain College
• West Valley College Virtual Campus: Are Distance Learning Courses Right for You?

Apply It!
Think about the use of readiness surveys for distance learning:
Would a survey be useful in your department or course? How?
What would this survey tell you about your students?
What would this tell students about themselves?
Could some of these questions be useful in an online course "ice breaker" or "get to know you" activity? How?

---