Tips about Online Learning

A successful online learner posesses characteristics that allow him/her to strive in an environment that lacks the control and routine of a regular classroom setting. Among those characteristics, the following are paramount:

• Self-motivation - does not need a lot of motivation, direction from an instructor;
• Self-discipline - can budget time; does not procrastinate;
• Enjoys the challenge of learning on his/her own;
• Communicates well in writing;
• May need a flexible schedule;
• Participates and contributes own ideas as often as possible;
• Logs on to the course every single day, or at least 5-6 times a week;
• Speaks up when problems occur;
• Downloads all course materials to own computer so that if connecting problems occur, documents can be accessed from your own computer;
• Keeps a copy of all email sent to the instructor by copying the message to yourself;
• Emails the instructor at least once a week - faculty appreciate knowing that their students are attentive and participative;
• Gets familiar with the discussion board and/or chat room and uses them regularly or at least as often as they are required;
• Is well aware that email is "permanent," therefore, choose words carefully. Humor is more difficult to get across in an email;
  -The instructor may choose to make your email public to other students enrolled.