Distance Learning in
Health Education
Whether an online
class is a good idea depends on the student. Online courses are
typically more demanding than traditional courses in a
classroom setting, but there are benefits that
can outweigh the extra demands.
If you
are considering taking one of the courses listed at the bottom of
this page, read carefully over the materials below and take the self
assessment test to determine if online learning is best for you:
THE DEMANDS OF ONLINE LEARNING
Successful students in online courses
share some common characteristics:
-
self-motivation, self
discipline
-
initiative, good time
management skills
-
an ability to communicate
clearly in writing
Because you don't
go to a classroom regularly, it's easy to get behind. You have to manage your time
and stay on top of deadlines. Also the teacher can't see the
confused look on a student's face in an online setting, so students
must be willing to initiate help. You must be able to communicate clearly in writing. If you can't compose an
email asking a clear question or explain your ideas in a
discussion forum, the course is going to be difficult.
ABOUT THE TECHNOLOGY
If you're taking an online course,
you
need to be proficient with technology:
-
accessing the Internet and
Blackboard
-
using email, sending and receiving
attachments; taking timed online quizzes
-
accessing, viewing and posting
on discussion boards
-
downloading
plug-ins to view certain components of reading
You MUST have reliable access to a computer with Internet
connection. If your only access to the Internet is from dial up, you may have trouble taking online quizzes; if your only
access to the Internet is in campus labs, you may find yourself too
limited, unless you live on campus.
THE BENEFITS OF ONLINE LEARNING
As many online
students like to say, they can go to class in their pajamas. If your
best time to work is 2 a.m., then that's when class is in session
for you. For students who find it challenging to get a fulltime
class schedule while working, an online class can be a solution.
Course materials are always available, and you can easily review them.
Many students find it easier to participate in an online discussion because they have time to think about and edit their
responses. Shyness is less of an issue.
NOT FOR EVERYONE...IS IT RIGHT FOR
YOU?
If you like of face-to-face interaction or need to hear the
teacher explain an assignment, a traditional class might be better. Also, if
you need constant reminders from the teacher to keep
up with your work, then online is not for you! Only
you
can determine if you are a good candidate. UCLA offers a quiz that
assesses whether you are cut out for an online course:
self-assessment
RESOURCES FOR SUCCESS
These links will take you to resources
on how to succeed in an online course:
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
If you take
an online course in the Department of Human Studies, the course will use an asynchronous online format provided
through Blackboard. Register for the course just like you
would for any other course. Right before classes begin for the term
you have enrolled, you will receive an email through your UAB email
address (student@uab.edu). You
MUST
have a University email account to register (see "Student
Email Policy").
It is YOUR responsibility to check that email account for contact
with your course instructor. The instructor
will give you further details about the course including a
REQUIRED orientation class
during the first week of the term.
Online
Courses in THE DEPARTMENT of Human Studies
For further questions, contact Dr. Retta Evans at
rrevans@uab.edu
