Technical Skills for Online Learning

Technical Skills Required for Successful Online Learning

Students who enroll in a distance education course (online, hybrid, or virtual) are responsible for having adequate computer skills to accomplish the tasks that will be expected of them. Online instructors are not responsible for teaching these skills within the course. If you do not possess the following skills, you may want to take a computer class to increase your knowledge before attempting an online class.

Here are some essential skills required:

• Knowledge of computer terminology, such as browser, operating system, application, software, files, documents, icon, etc.
• Understanding of basic computer hardware and software with the ability to perform computer operations, such as:
  • Using keyboard and mouse
  • Managing files and folders: save, name, copy, move, backup, rename, delete, check properties
  • Software installation, security, and virus protection
  • Using software applications such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, email
  • Knowledge of copying and pasting, spell-checking, and saving files in different formats
  • Uploading and downloading attachments

  In addition to the key skills above, you must also have access to the technology required for distance education courses.

  Southern Union State Community College, an open admission, public two-year college and member of the Alabama Community College System, provides quality and relevant teaching and learning in academic, technical, and health science programs that are affordable, accessible, equitable, and responsive to the diverse needs of its students, community, business, industry, and government.

  Campus Locations

  750 Roberts Street
  Wadley, AL 36276
  256-395-2211 301 Lake Condy Road
  Opelika, AL 36801
  334-745-6437 321 Fob James Drive
  Valley, AL 36854
  334-756-4151