University of Montevallo

Online Readiness Assessment

You can be successful in online courses if you have basic technical and academic skills, are able to study independently, and are willing to devote the same amount of time and effort that you would to a traditional college course.

To get a general idea of your "chances for success" as an online student, rate how well each item below describes you. There are no right or wrong answers so your first reaction is usually best. Please respond to all items.

1. Computer Skills	Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neither Agree nor Disagree	Agree	Strongly Agree
I am capable of learning new technologies.
I can send and receive e-mail.
I can attach files to an e-mail message.
I am a competent Internet browser.
I can use standard word processing software.
I can manage files on a computer.
I can download new software when necessary.
I can install new software when necessary.
I can copy and paste text using a computer.
I am capable of using online discussion boards.
I am capable of using online chat rooms.
2. Independent Learning	Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neither Agree nor Disagree	Agree	Strongly Agree
I am capable of prioritizing my responsibilities.
I am a good time manager.
I am a procrastinator.
I am capable of making time for my coursework.
I am able to balance many tasks at one time.
I am goal-oriented.
I am self-disciplined when it comes to my studies.
I am self-motivated.
I take responsibility for my learning.
I am capable of critical thinking.
3. Dependent Learning	Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neither Agree nor Disagree	Agree	Strongly Agree
I often leave tasks unfinished.
I require help to understand written instructions.
I wait until the last minute to work on assignments.
I have trouble comprehending what I read.
I need teachers to remind me of assignment due dates.
I need incentives/rewards to motivate me to complete a task.
4. Need for Online Learning	Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neither Agree nor Disagree	Agree	Strongly Agree
Because of my personal schedule, I need online courses.
It is difficult for me to go to campus to complete course requirements.
I need online courses because of my geographical distance from universities.
I need online courses because of my work schedule.
I need the freedom of completing coursework at the time and place of my choosing.
5. Academic Skills	Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neither Agree nor Disagree	Agree	Strongly Agree
I can learn by working independently.
I am self-directed in my learning.
I am capable of solving problems alone.
I need face-to-face interaction to learn.
I need faculty feedback on my completed assignments.
I read well.
I need classroom discussion to learn.
I am capable of asking for help when I have a problem.
I am comfortable learning new skills.
I read carefully.
I write well.
I am capable of following written instructions.
I am capable of conveying my ideas in writing.

The TOOLS (Test of Online Learning Success) self-assessment test was created by Marcel S. Kerr, Kimberly Rynearson, and Marcus C. Kerr.