How do I know if I'm ready to take a course that is 100 percent online?  In order to succeed in an online course at Ottawa University, you should have the following technical skills before you begin your course. 

You must be able to:

• perform basic computer operations such as create folders, open and close windows, browse to find files, and rename files and folders;
• retrieve, compose, and send email messages to individuals and multiple recipients;
• type efficiently/quickly (online courses are very typing-intensive);
• send and receive attachments in email messages;
• connect your computer to the Internet (or have steady access to an Internet-connected computer);
• perform basic word processing functions using Microsoft Word 2000 or higher such as formatting text, creating and editing tables, and copying and pasting text. (WordPerfect and Microsoft Works are not acceptable for online courses at Ottawa University);
• download and install browser plug-in software such as Adobe PDF reader, QuickTime Player, or WinZip. (If this is necessary in a course you are taking, instructions will be provided.  There will be no additional cost for this software.);
• download and save files from a textbook or publisher website. (If required for your course, you will be given instructions on how to locate and download the files. There is no additional charge to download data files.);
• and navigate around the Internet and know how to use search engines.

If you do not yet have these technical skills, we suggest that you postpone enrolling in an online course until you have mastered these skills.  In addition to a minimum level of technical competency as described above, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I have access to an Internet-connected computer 5-7 days per week?
• Do I have 12 to 15 hours per week to work on each online class?
• Am I motivated to log in to the virtual classroom (Blackboard) at least 5 times each week?
• Do I have good reading comprehension and written communication skills, and do I enjoy communicating in writing?
• Am I willing to spend more time on an online course than a traditional classroom course?
• Do I have good time management skills?
• Can I meet deadlines if it's up to me to set my own coursework schedule?
• Am I a self-starter?  Will I seek help when I need it?

Sample an online class!