Success in Online Learning
Would you pack for a trip without knowing your
destination? Of course not! You need details about the climate and
your planned activities in order to adequately prepare. Similarly,
before you begin taking online classes, there are some details you
should review to make sure you are well prepared for the journey
ahead.
(1) You must have the necessary
tools.
A computer, a modem and internet access are the basic tools necessary
to enroll in online classes. But you should also have basic computer
and keyboarding skills. At a minimum, most classes will require
you to send and receive assignments and attachments by e-mail, do
research on the internet, and possibly enter virtual classrooms
where live interactions can occur between you, your professor and
other students.
If you need to brush up on these skills, there
are many places to turn for help -- try the store where you purchased
your computer, family and friends who are knowledgeable about computers,
and classes offered at community centers, junior colleges, and even
libraries.
(2) Study course requirements
before you commit to a specific program or class. Read the syllabus
carefully. Pay special attention to the number of assignments, tests,
papers and projects that will be required. You will want your time
budget to be able to handle the minimum requirements for the class.
(3) Know your own strengths
and weaknesses.
If you know that you are better at reading and memorizing facts,
but you struggle when writing papers, you should consider taking
classes that rely more on test and quiz scores to calculate your
grade. A class that heavily emphasizes writing term papers and doing
projects might not be the best fit for you. Use your strengths to
your advantage.
(4) You must be a self-disciplined
student.
As an online student, you will be responsible for determining your
study schedule and the pace of your assignments. You must be able
to set assignment goals and do what it takes to meet them.
Even if you have never considered yourself to
be self-disciplined, with strong motivation you can succeed. Begin
by taking one class at a time to test the waters. Each time you
successfully complete a class, you will be more encouraged to continue.
(5) You must set aside adequate
study time.
Even if you believe you have no time in your day to study, most
people can find a few hours somewhere. Spend less time watching
television, or reduce the time you mindlessly cruise the internet.
Perhaps you can get up an hour earlier or go to bed an hour later.
Remember, this is a temporary sacrifice for long-term gain. You
can do it!
(6) You must turn in assignments
in a timely manner. Begin required papers and projects early;
and collect research materials in a well-paced fashion. If you keep
a steady pace, you will be able to complete your coursework sooner,
and you will reap the rewards a lot faster.
(7) Take advantage of additional
resources offered by the school. Online colleges want you to
succeed - your success is their success. So utilize the online libraries,
available tutoring, and other assistance as needed.
(8) Remain motivated!
If you become discouraged or overwhelmed, renew your inspiration.
Read articles about your chosen field, talk to people who are doing
what you want to do, remind yourself of the reasons you chose to
pursue that field. Picture yourself receiving your college degree
or professional certificate. And keep in your mind the huge smile
and the wonderful feeling of accomplishment that comes with a job
well done!
By Vida Lynne Olivier
Copyright 2006. All Rights Reserved. |
