Distance Learning

How To Succeed in Online Courses

Access

• Have access to a computer and a reliable internet connection

Be Informed

• Get started early
• Know how to navigate your course
• Read everything your instructor sends or posts.  Ask for clarification right away, if needed.
• Print the syllabus and read often

Communicate

• Check your Tech email daily.  Note that you can forward your Tech email to another account
• Ask your instructor how he/she prefers to be contacted
• Ask for clarification right away if you don't understand what is being said or asked
• Ask for help right away for technical issues or coursework questions -- be proactive!
• Check and read your email before you send it
• Don't type in all-caps -- this is a form of yelling in Internet communication
• Be sure you post substantial, documented comments in forum posts
• Be respectful of other students' thoughts and perspectives

Stay Organized

• Keep deadlines marked on one calendar or planner
• Make sure you finish and submit all course assignments on time
• Back up your data
• Be consistent

Time Management

• Online courses can be more challenging
• Don't procrastinate
• Keep up with assigned readings
• Set designated blocks of time to work on the course each day
• Get involved with the course!