1. Manage Your Time
Discipline is a key element for online learning success. "If you have a tendency to put things off until tomorrow, you don't have time for distance courses. You must be disciplined enough to commit a substantial amount of time each week to do the necessary work," says Mary Beth Almeda, Director of the Center for Media and Independent Learning at the University of California, Extension in Berkeley. It's extremely important that once a semester begins you don't procrastinate and log into classes as soon as possible.
2. Set Deadlines and Motivational Goals
Students learning via the internet need to be able to organize their time and resources. Many successful students set weekly/monthly goals or schedules to determine how much material needs to be covered and the necessary time to complete it.
3. Set a Routine and Stay Organized
Online courses provide you with the flexibility to fit your schoolwork around your own schedule. You need to take advantage of that benefit. But you should also make that time consistent. When you set aside time it's easier to "stick with it" if it becomes part of your regular routine. Muriel Oaks, Associate Vice President of The Extended University Services at Washington State University in Pullman (WSU) conducted a survey of distance students and found that discipline and organization were consistent characteristics of successful learners.
4. Be an Active Learner
As an online learner, you are placed in a situation where you must become engaged in the learning process. You cannot sit at the back of the lecture hall and quietly take notes and drift off. Online learning means actively communicating back and forth with professors and other students. You should never hesitate to ask for help when you need it-from professors or even other students. Both are great resources for support, advice and experience. Another aspect of active learning is the ability to quickly apply your lessons to real-life working scenarios. This is a great way to reinforce the classroom knowledge.
5. Be Familiar With the Format
Even before you log into your first class you should take steps to familiarize yourself with the program format. AIU Online provides prospective students with examples of online classes to help prepare you for the program. You should also become comfortable with the communication tools and skills you will need to learn effectively in this format. Paula Peinovich, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Regents College in Albany, New York, comes in contact with thousands of distance students and notes the need for students to sharpen their writing skills for courses that require a great deal of written communication, either when submitting homework or "talking" with other students and professors via e-mail. As an online student, you should also remember to use proper online etiquette (check your email in a timely fashion and refrain from typing in all caps).
Final Note About Online Learning
The online learning process can provide many benefits to motivated and committed students. To excel in this interactive and accelerated environment you may need to take a few steps to reach your academic goals. Keep in mind that taking these steps may get you closer to an educational degree that can make all the difference in your future.
|
