Online learning is relatively new, but some studies have already been done. They show that you can learn just as much online as you can in a regular classroom. But there are differences for the students.

When you learn online, you have to be active and disciplined and results-oriented. When you learn in the classroom, you can be more passive and responsive and let the teacher lead the learning process.

Some early participants in online learning have identified that, to be successful online, you should be the kind of learner who can answer yes to the following questions.

• Do you want to learn online?
• Will you be comfortable discussing work and educational experiences with other online learners?
• Can you communicate fairly clearly in writing?
• Are you good at making a schedule and sticking to it?
• Will you be able to speak up if you encounter a problem with the online course?
• Do you have convenient access to a computer with a modem or high-speed connection?
• Does your workplace support your choice of online learning?
• Will you be able to take time at home to work online?
• Would you benefit from being able to view and review lessons at your own pace and as often as you like?

• rate themselves "high" on measures related to persistence in taking on new projects;
• were married;
• consider the consequences of not passing a course "serious";
• rate their chance of succeeding as high;
• do not need support from others to complete difficult tasks and do not need to discuss their work with other students;
• have high literacy levels;
• rate themselves as well-organized,with good time management skills;
• rate themselves as well-prepared for higher learning.