• Essentials Workshop
• Student Readiness for Online Courses
• Training Calendar

Student Readiness for Online Courses

Equipment Needed (hardware & software)

1) Personal Computer or laptop with speakers, microphone, and webcam; see the ITS Recommended Computer Guidelines for system-specific requirements.

If you do not have your own computer to complete online coursework, be prepared to locate and use a public computer or laptop (public library, Nazareth College computer lab etc). 

2) Microsoft Office or equivalent.

3) Current version of a web browser (Chrome or Firefox). Please note: Moodle is optimized for use in Chrome.

4) Up-to-date virus protection.

5) A high-speed internet connection —ethernet is best.

6) File storage system of your choice — all Nazareth College students are provided with access to Google Drive with unlimited storage capabilities.

7) Specialty applications per instructor request. 

Online Course Readiness 

The following four characteristics are common for successful online students:

• Intermediate technical skills
• Comfort with electronic communication (written, video chat etc)
• Ability to study independently
• Strong organizational skills

Time Commitment 

An on-campus 3 credit course traditionally requires approximately 6 hours per week of dedicated study time outside of the classroom. 

An online, undergraduate 3 credit course requires approximately 6-8 hours of dedicated study and participation in the virtual classroom per week. Graduate course work often requires a higher-level of time commitment per week. 

It is important to consider other personal and professional commitments as you pursue online coursework. 

Self-Assessment 

Are you ready? Take this self-assessment to gauge your readiness for online learning!