Got a question?

Questions about College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Distance Education courses and programs can be directed to (800)747-4478 or by E-mail. For a list of all courses and programs available from Iowa State University, call 515-294-1889 or visit www.distance.iastate.edu.

 

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Are you prepared to be a Distance Education student?

The distance learner must possess many of the same characteristics and skills as a traditional on-campus student: study skills, time management, self-discipline, and motivation. However, the distance learner must also possess a unique set of characteristics due to the unique nature of distance classes.*

As you prepare to begin your journey through distance education, it is important to ask yourself these questions to ensure distance learning is right for you.

• Do you have (are you willing to obtain) access to a computer and high-speed internet connection?
• Can you dedicate four to six hours a week to participate in the learning process
• Are you a self-motivated and self-disciplined person?
• Are you comfortable communicating online?
• Do you enjoy reading?
• Are you comfortable with email, computers, and new technologies?
• Do you feel that high quality learning can take place without having face-to-face interaction?
• When it comes to schoolwork and deadlines, are you a procrastinator?

 

Computer Connection

It is important to have access to the Internet and various other computer applications in order to be successful in distance education courses. Review our distance education computer requirements web page to verify if you have the proper equipment and software.

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Participation

You will be expected to participate in class even though you will not physically be in the classroom. Many online courses contain an element of student discussion. Be prepared to be graded on the timeliness of your logins and the thoroughness of your discussions. Research suggests that students should spend two to three hours per week on course material for every credit hour they are taking.

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Self-Motivation

Distance education courses put you in control of your learning. It is important to stay on top of your online course assignments, readings, and discussions. If you get behind in an online course, it is very hard to catch up. You should login on a regular basis, stay organized, work on time management, and give yourself enough time to complete assignments and tests by there due dates. You should buy your textbooks immediately so you are prepared to complete the necessary assignments on schedule.

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Online Communication

Most frequently the communication medium of choice in distance education is the written word as expressed online in threaded discussion forums, real-time chats, email messaging and written assignments. It is important students are able to effectively represent their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through writing in order to be successful within distance education courses.

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Reading

Distance Education courses contain a significant amount of reading. However, you will have opportunities to seek out support through communication with the instructor or other students on the content of the reading. Effective reading skills and note taking will make it easier for you to succeed as a student in distance education courses.

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Course Technologies

Distance education courses connect students to each other and their instructor through online discussion, emails, and chats. The course content is delivered differently depending on which class you are taking, therefore, it is important you understand what format your class is in before the beginning of the term. A list and description of course delivery methods and technologies is available on our website.

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Distance Education Course Interaction

Open communication between student, instructor, and classmates not only increase the overall learning experience you will receive, but helps the instructor identify issues that other distance learners my encounter. It is important to keep the lines of communication open with the instructor at all times so he or she is aware when something in the course is giving you problems.

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Procrastination

Procrastination is really not an option when taking a distance education course. We suggest setting up a timetable that will help you remember when things are due and other important deadlines. This work plan puts you on track to complete your course successfully and also maintain a high level of academic achievement.

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*Some of the information on this page has been adapted from the University of Nebraska--Lincoln EE & O website.