Because online learning is such a novel idea, most individuals may find that they are having a difficult time preparing for their online programs. The best way to prepare for any online program is to ask a series of questions, or to create a checklist. It is vital that prospective students are able to assess their motivation, career goals, the learning process and learning environments.

Prospective students may first want to ask themselves:

• Am I able to manage my time without guidance?
• Am I able to complete work independently, and turn it in on time?

Before signing up for online courses, students should request to see each course's syllabus as well as any other important course outlines. Students should make sure they know each courses':

• Prerequisites
• Objectives
• Procedures fur turning in assignments
• Late work policies
• Interaction requirements, i.e. synchronous vs. asynchronous
• Grading
• Office hours or academic support
• Required technology
• Course layout

Furthermore, before enrolling in a course, students also need to consider the course's electronic learning environment. Technological considerations include:

• The course's technological requirements
• Suggested optimal browsers and/or email clients
• Whether or not software training will be provided
• Whether or not online textbooks will be involved

Once students have signed up for their online courses, it is imperative that they then create a functional work environment. Concerns that should be addressed include whether or not:

• Students have access to internet and email
• Their internet connection is sufficient
• They have back ups, like memory sticks or external hard drives
• Students have alternatives outside their home environments