Tips and Strategies

Just as in other college courses, successful online learning requires commitment and hard work. In addition, there are tips and strategies that can ensure positive online learning experiences.

Here are some suggestions:

• Recognize that you have many commitments--family, friends, work, and school may be just a few. Think about your Prioritization of Commitments before your class begins so that you can develop a plan that will work for you.
• Make a plan and set aside enough time to complete all course activities--Time Management is essential.
• Think about how you learn. When you are trying to learn something new, do you like to read? To write? To see? To touch? Take time to consider your own Learning Styles and Preferences.
• Familiarize yourself with technology and Course Tools/Vista. Practice and be able to solve simple problems. Becoming comfortable with your Computer and Internet Usage will help you in your online course. Proactively Addressing Problems, both academic and technical, is likely to minimize their impact.
• Build your Reading and Writing skills. You will be doing both in online classes and you will be expected to do so at a level required in all college courses.
• In online courses, it is essential that you are clearly Communicating Ideas with Others typically through e-mail and online discussions. Think before you respond and reread what you have written. Ask: "Am I actually saying what I thought I was saying?" Also consider what others are saying, including your instructor, by Using Feedback to Help Improve Performance.
• As a member of a learning community, you will be Working Collaboratively with your instructor and classmates. Share positive contributions and be responsible for any commitments you make regarding group activities and projects.

Remember a Few Basic Practices

Although these tips may seem like common sense, you might be surprised to find out how many students overlook them:

• Register early for your class--online courses fill up quickly and, if you wait, all spots may be taken.
• Meet deadlines--most instructors will not accept late submissions.
• Participate--it is expected and required; online learning requires you to actively engage in course activities.
• Be proactive--quickly seek solutions to problems and ask for clarifications when needed; appropriate persistence may be necessary when you require answers or information. You are your best advocate and hold many of the keys to your success.
• Stay connected--your instructor and classmates are there to help you learn.
• Adhere to all academic rules and regulations--there are penalties for cheating and plagiarism.
• Be polite, patient, and respectful--help to create an environment that encourages inquiry, creativity and thinking.