Some students enroll in an online class thinking it is easier. Though the schedule may be convenient, the student faces new challenges in an online course setting. Participation, study, and completing assignments are essential. On top of that, e-learners must be comfortable with the course site, stay on task, and reach out when faced with questions or tech issues.
Assessing the Course Site Essential for E-Learning Success
The website for an online class, known as the course page or course site, is the virtual equivalent of the brick and mortar classroom. Try the following steps for maximum comfort in any virtual classroom:
- Figure out how the instructor communicates with the class, and always watch for those messages and tips. Announcements in the course site, email, and sometimes blogs and chat are some methods used;
- Find and read the course syllabus to be sure you understand everything that's required of you during this class. Some instructors include other handouts on classroom rules and deadlines and other orientation materials. Be familiar with those as well;
- Know how to access the discussion portion of the page as well as the assignments, organized into modules or units, a syllabus. Many colleges are including blog and chat features into their online courses as well, so students can have increased interaction with the instructor and each other.
All tests, assignments, handouts, deadlines, and indeed everything a students needs to complete and submit assignments exists here. Knowing your way around the coursesite is the equivalent of walking into a brick and mortar classroom, taking off the headphones, and paying attention in class.
Staying on Task Key to Success in an Online Class
Taking a class in your pajamas may sound good, but in reality you, and only you, can log on and complete assignments. Many students struggle because they cannot keep up with the readings or assignments at the last minute. Indeed, showing up can be the hardest part of online learning. The following may help create an environment condusive to online learning in your life:
- Schedule specific times to focus solely on the online classwork. Minimize distractions by getting child support or asking the roomates to not party during these times. Put on your favorite music, grab your favorite beverage, and log on to class;
- Separate online class work from leisure internet time, and train yourself not to surf or play on Facebook, online without direction. Copy or download assignments that you need and do them away from the computer. This may sound strange, but it's easy to spend more time playing online than devoting time needed to classwork. Remove temptation all together and focus on class;
- Create a special place in your home to do your homework, or a routine such as every night after dinner. This will ensure you don't forget to do your online course work;
- Avoid technology stress by taking a break after every half hour online, writing down the assignments on paper first, and doing the work a little at a time to avoid last minute pressures.
Scheduling an online class into a busy life may be a challenge, but it is key to success in online learning.
Reach Out to Succeed in Online College Classes
Many unexperienced students hesitate to email or contact an instructor in any class out of fear or insecurity. In reality, instructors expect such communication in an online setting and are eager to aid students' success in their class. Know how and why to contact your instructor, as well as preferred methods of communication such as phone and chat.
Technology support from the school is also available in case of problems accessing the course site. Be sure to have email or phone number handy and stay ahead of deadlines to stay on track.
E-learning may take some adjustment for college students and others who have never taken a course online. Yet by devoting time to logging on, actually logging on, and being assertive with questions or concerns, any learner is well on the way to success in an online college classroom
For more on deciding if an online college class is right for you, try Is Online Learning Right for Me: Tips for College Students.
Source:
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Parry, Marc. "Tomorrow's College" in Chronicle of Higher Education, accessed October 2011.
Melissa Roberts - A trained hospital chaplain, Melissa is a freelance writer, teacher, retreat leader, and spiritual director.
