SORT Tips for assessing student preparedness in online science learning environments.

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Are Your Students Prepared
for Distance Learning?

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Student Attrition from Distance
Learning Stems from Deficiencies in
• Intrinsic motivation and persistence
• Engagement with classmates and/or the instructor
• Study skills and ability to process written material
• Time management skills
• Access to or familiarity with technology

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Accurate and Early Self-
Assessment Can Help Students to
• Determine if they’re ready for distance learning
• Focus on needed changes to achieve success
• Be aware of the unique challenges of distance learning

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Self-Assessment of Readiness for
Distance Learning Addresses
• Attitudes and beliefs about online learning
• Favored learning style
• Study habits
• Accessibility of learning tools and resources
• Technology experience

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SORT
(Student Online Readiness Tool)
• Developed by University System of Georgia
• Quizzes students on six topics related to success in online learning
• Available online

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SORT:
Technology Experience
• Using, maintaining, and troubleshooting a personal computer
• Navigating the Internet
• Working with document files

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SORT:
Access to Tools
• Personal computer with sound and basic software
• Stable Internet connection

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SORT:
Study Habits
• Self-direction
• Time management

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SORT:
Lifestyle
• Adequate time for coursework
• Suitable environment for study

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SORT:
Goals and Purposes
• Motivation for taking an online course
• Ability to stay on task

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SORT:
Learning Preference
• Organizational skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Aptitude for working independently

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MERLOT
(Multimedia Educational Resource for
Learning and Online Teaching)
• Additional assessment tools curated

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