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Is Online Learning for Me?

Learning online is not for everyone, so students need to consider the differences between face-to-face and distance learning. A careful assessment of your study habits and preferences is the key to a successful distributed learning experience.

Ask yourself the following questions, then visit the Online Learning home pages to begin an exciting educational journey with online learning at CWU!

Do I have the skill/traits needed to be able to learn this way?

  • Self-Motivation
  • Ability to Cope
  • Independent Worker
  • Time Management & Organizational Skills
  • Take Responsibility for My Learning Experience
  • Resourcefulness
  • Active Class Participation

How will this fit into my schedule?

How good are my reading skills?

How comfortable am I about asking for help?

Do I have the computer skills necessary for this type of course?

Recommended hardware and software:
  • Pentium (II, III, IV) processor with at least 266-500 Mhz with Windows 98 or higher (Win XP) - or Mac G3-G4 or higher
  • 64- 128 Megabytes of RAM or greater
  • 20-40 GB hard drive or larger
  • Software: Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat Reader, GroupWise E-mail(required)
  • 56.6 kps modem; DSL or cable modem recommended
  • NOTE: JavaScript Cookies must be enabled
  • Internet Service Provider (ISP such as CVIP, Comcast, AOL, Earthlink, etc.)
  • Internet Explorer 5.0 - 6.0 or higher or Netscape 5.0-6.0 or higher

General Computer Skills: Internet Skills:
  • Word Processing
  • Editing
  • File Management
  • Mouse Skills
  • Software/Hardware Installation
  • Browser Navigation
  • Web Searching
  • Online Communication
  • Documents, Plugins, & Software Downloads

If using the Virtual classroom and Internet Explorer with Windows XP or Mac OSX you will need to download Java at the following URL: http://www.java.com/en/index.jsp. Click the link, Free Download , Java software for the Desktop

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Contact Information


Multimedia Technology and Instructional Support
400 E. University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926
(509)963-1224
email: chinn@cwu.edu
Central Washington University 400 E. University Way, Ellensburg WA 98926 This Site Optimized For Newer Browsers.
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