During Class

Once you have enrolled in an online course, you will need to be ready to change your thinking about how things will work. Traditionally, students sit at desks and are surrounded by classmates. A teacher stands in the front of the room and provides information.

During online courses, your reality may be more like this:

• You "go to" class at any time, day or night.
• You "talk to" your instructor using e-mail, discussions, or chats.
• Your instructor "talks" to you the same way.
• "Discussions" are written and continue all week with everyone adding comments at different times.
• You use a "computer" instead of pencils, pens, or chalk.
• You "end" class when you need to and can "go back" to class when you want to.

Achieving Your Goals

With all of these differences, you may not be sure what you need to do to ensure success during an online course. This section of the Guide provides you with tips and strategies that will help you during your online endeavors. Additional information is included about each of the following course items:

• Lectures and Content
• Discussions
• Assessments
• Assignments
• Who's Online--Chat Tool

• Group and Peer Activities
• Grading and Rubrics
• Learning Strategies
• Academic Policies
• Surveys and Evaluations

Active Participation and a willingness to share with your Learning Community will also contribute the quality of your experience in your online course.

Technical Assistance

Although this Guide provides some technical information, you will need to contact the Learning Resource Center (LRC) if you experience specific technical difficulties with Vista/Course Tools while participating in your online course.