The answer to this question is not as obvious as what you might think. Here are some issues that you need to ask yourself. On-line classes are not for everyone. I really recommend that you honestly answer these questions.

Learning/Motivational/Computer factors
1. In terms of homework or assignments, do you try to get your work done ahead of time or do you wait until the last minute?
2. Are classroom discussions and feeling like you are part of a class an important part of your learning?
3. When an instructor hands out assignments, are you able to figure them out on your own or do you need an oral explanation as well?
4. Do you have the same amount of time to devote to this class as any other 3 credit hour class?
5. Are you a good reader?
6. Are you self-motivated? Can you get work done without someone reminding you to do the work?
7. Do you have easy access to a computer that has web capabilities and e-mail?
8. Can you - open and close a browser, manually imput a URL into a browser's address box, utilize the browser's toolbard, save or print a web page?
9. Can you - send and receive e-mail, attach documents, copy and paste text, open attached documents?
10. Do you understand and know how to use a discussion group and a chat room?

To succeed in a internet class, you need to be self-motivated - there is not a class that meets consistently to make sure you remain caught up with your work. There is a high level of independence in these courses with less interaction with other students. You must make sure that you set aside several blocks of time each week to work on the class. Don't let other classes, personal circumstances, etc. get in the way. Too often, students wait until the last minute to do assignments or put it off for other work. Normally, a class requires the 3 hours in class as well as time out of class. It has been said that, to do well in a class, you need to put in 2-3 hours out of class for every hour in class. What this means is that you should be spending between 9-12 hours per week on this course.

You also need to be comfortable with e-mail, web surfing, chat rooms, printing, etc. Since the class is in a virtual classroom, you need internet access at home. Just relying on the campus computer labs can be problematic - and there will not be leniency for students who say that the assignment was late because they didn't have access to a computer. Please make sure that you read the section on Netiquette.

The book - It is important that you thoroughly read the book - I recommend taking notes as you go along or using a variation of SQ4R. Even though I have links to the book's web site and my notes and there is a study guide, the book is still the most important source of information. The web site outline, my notes, and the study guide are just for guidance - not to replace the book.
The web assignments - Each assignment is designed to give you more detail about a particular topic. When you answer the questions, make sure that you reword the information in your words. If you just copy word for word from the book or links, the assignment will not count. In addition, if you can't find the material on the web site, try using your book.

For more information, check out the material by Penn State (World Campus 101). It explains what an on-line course is like, what you need to have, etc.