Online Learning For Dummies. Susan Manning

your computer (or at least its Internet connection) when you’re not using it.

      Additional programs

      Depending on what class you’re taking, your instructor may require you to acquire and install additional programs. For example, if you’re taking a business class, you’re likely to need a spreadsheet application, such as Microsoft Excel. Or, if you’re a doctorate student, you may be required to install a statistics software package like SPSS for carrying out research. Many software companies have moved to a subscription-based purchasing structure. Gone are the days when you purchase a program, install it on your computer from a disc, and then use that version of the software as long as you want before updating to another version. Now, you purchase a monthly or annual subscription and are required to create a profile on the vendor’s site upon purchasing their software. When running the software on your computer, you’re required to log in, and the software checks to ensure that the software is up-to-date and paid for. Though you can no longer go on for years — skipping versions if you want to save money — you’re at least guaranteed the latest version of the product at all times.

      Establishing a reliable Internet connection

      When taking an online course, the Internet is your lifeline to your instructor, peers, and course materials. Therefore, reliable Internet service is essential for your success. Not only do you need a fast, reliable Internet connection at home, but you should also have alternative options, just in case your connection fails.

Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). This is also how most Internet service providers (ISPs) determine cost. The more Mbps you want, the faster your Internet goes — and the more it costs. Before signing a contract with an ISP, make sure the one you choose can deliver the speed and service availability needed to take an online course. Some institutions tell you the minimum upload and download speeds you need in order to connect to their system. Even if you don’t know what these figures mean, you can still ask prospective service providers whether they’re capable of meeting those requirements. Some general speed recommendations based on standard online learning activities include the ones described in this list:

       0–5 Mbps: This speed is good for basic functions like surfing the web and checking email. This is roughly equivalent to 3G cellular service, if you’re using your phone as a hotspot. This is not recommended for online courses that require synchronous communication in real time using video.

       5–50 Mbps: Works pretty well for more complex functions (including video calls) if only one device at a time is accessing the Internet. This is roughly equivalent to 4G/LTE cellular service and can work with many online courses.

       50–100 Mbps: Good for more complex tasks, including streaming video and making video calls while the Internet is being accessed by multiple devices. Though much faster speeds are available, this should be plenty for typical online learners.

      

It has been our experience that connecting to the Internet using satellite equipment can be problematic. The delay between earth and satellite may cause the system to time out. Sadly, the result is that you can’t log in.

      If you live in an area that has limited options for connecting to the Internet and are concerned that the connection speed may not be adequate, you should

       Contact the institution and explain your situation. See whether their technical support staff has any ideas.

       Arrange for a 30-day, money-back trial with any prospective Internet service providers. Then you can test the system without having to a commit to a 1- or 2-year contract before knowing whether it will meet your needs.

      

Trust us when we tell you that sometimes when an assignment is due, your Internet connection — even one that’s typically reliable — will die. This can be frustrating and keep you from being able to turn in assignments and/or participate in synchronous meetings. Therefore, you must have a backup plan for accessing your course. Some ideas for backups include the use of your phone as a temporary hotspot, your public library, an office, or a nearby coffee shop.

Testing Your Technological Abilities

      After you have the right hardware, the right software, and a reliable Internet connection, you need a few technological skills to match. Understanding your technological competencies up front can help you determine whether it would be a good idea for you to take an introductory computer course or read some computer books before enrolling in an online class. The following sections describe the skills you need.

      Reading and scrolling efficiently

      Much of the information you receive when taking an online class is provided to you directly on the screen. Although printing it is always an option, you’re not always provided with reading assignments in the form of a word processing file that you can save and print easily. Therefore, you need to be able to read onscreen information quickly and know how to scroll when text goes off the screen. To scroll, simply find the scroll bars on the bottom and right side of the window. The bottom scroll bar allows you to scroll left and right, whereas the scroll bar on the right lets you scroll up and down. Some computer mice have buttons, scroll wheels, and touch capabilities that allow quick scrolling functionality.

      Having the window maximized to fit the entire screen is also helpful because it reduces the need to scroll. If you’re a Windows user, you can maximize the screen by clicking on the Maximize icon in the top right of the active window. Mac users can click on the green button in the top left of the active window. Both buttons are located in the active window’s border.

      

Knowing how to zoom text within your web browser may be helpful as well. For most browsers, you can find Zoom In and Zoom Out options on the View menu. However, your Internet browser may work differently.

      

Take frequent breaks. This helps reduce eyestrain, which can lead to higher levels of productivity in the long run. A simple 2-minute break to get a drink of water or use the restroom does wonders for your efficiency.

      Typing quickly and accurately

      Because most communication in online courses occurs via text, you need to be able to type quickly and accurately. Speed and accuracy are even more important during synchronous meetings, where you may be trying to answer questions in real time. (We explain synchronous learning in detail in Chapter 2.)

Being able to type quickly reduces the time it takes to complete assignments and participate in online discussions. Though the spell checker is a wonderful tool, accurate typing skills are always more desirable. A spell checker with automatic correction often “corrects” misspellings erroneously, replacing the word you intended with a similarly spelled one that changes the meaning of the sentence. So, no matter how well you type or how much you use a spell checker, always proofread your work before submitting it.

      Whether you have your fingers properly placed on the keyboard or use the 2-finger, hunt-and-peck method doesn’t matter. No one will know how you type. However, if you need practice, you may want to consider a typing program that helps you learn how to type and provides timed tests that report your speed and accuracy. Examples are Typesy at www.typesy.com and TypingClub at www.typingclub.com.