Getting Started: Early Preparation
Online Study Readiness Checklist
Since most of your learning is done online and assignments are written electronically, it's important to have computer access and basic computing skills. This checklist will help show you at a glance whether you're prepared for online study. Print it off and work through it to evaluate your readiness for online learning.
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Questions |
Yes |
Unsure |
No |
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1. I own a laptop or PC no more than a few years old. 2. I am able to use this laptop or PC for long periods of time (i.e. several hours at a time). 3. My computer is located in a study space that is comfortable, well lit, and has minimal distractions. 4. In the event of computer problems, I can access another computer belonging to a friend or family member, at work, at a nearby campus, or at my local library. 5. I have high-speed internet access. 6. I feel comfortable searching the Internet. 7. I feel comfortable downloading and uploading files. 8. I feel comfortable communicating via email and through applications like Skype. 9. My computer can play video and audio. 10. My computer has Microsoft Office. 11. I feel comfortable using Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 12. I have virus protection on my computer. 13. If further development of computing skills is required, I am aware of local community organisations that can help me develop these skills (e.g. WEA and Adelaide Digital Hub for Adelaide-based students). 14. I am aware of the university’s IT helpdesk.
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If you answered mostly Yes, that’s great and you’re in a good place to start studying. If you answered a lot of questions with Unsure or No, this should give you some idea of areas to develop further before study begins. Make a telephone or face to face appointment with Language and Learning staff at the Learning and Teaching Unit to discuss any areas needing improvement.