Success As An Online Learner

Surviving Successfully in Online Classes

No mandatory class attendance, early mornings, cold chairs, or long commutes; this is going to be easy? Don’t be fooled! Online courses can be convenient and helpful, but if students do not understand what they need to do, they will be overwhelmed. Let’s do more than even survive - let’s Succeed! This article provides 7 strategies to help online students develop strategies for success and maximum benefit.

Taking online courses is not the same as taking a face to face class. Even though you may have taken traditional classes for many years, the online environment has different expectations and different opportunities which can be missed by the uninformed. This article provides 7 strategies to help every student start off on the right virtual foot.

Strategy 1 Determine Requirements.

Before signing up for an online course, find out what is expected in terms of participation, work, and hours online. Also make sure you have the necessary technology equipment to fully participate. Based on this information, you can make an informed decision and commitment to online learning. Your program, school or company should provide this information in writing for you.

Strategy 2 Make a Plan.

Once you have your syllabus our course outline, note your schedule of assignment deadlines in your current or NEW calendar. (If you don’t use one already, Google calendar is a wonderful online tool that complements this online learning experience.) ALSO, schedule in your times to sit at the computer and sign into your class and do work. The most successful online learners schedule these times as appointments in their weekly calendars rather than leaving it up to just finding a convenient time.

Strategy 3 Stick To It or Modify It Till It Fits.

It is unlikely your schedule/plan will work perfectly form the very start. Success is discovered as you adjust the plan to meet your real life learning needs and competing demands. Document what really is needed and what is available. Now you have a realistic plan, to which you may hold yourself accountable.

Strategy 4 Participate Frequently.

Sign in more than once per week. Participate frequently and you will recoup much more for your time and money, because you are more fully involved in your studies. Making the learning experience your focus of attention several times a week means much greater learning than only giving it a few minutes once a week. Focus, saturation, or concentration, whatever you want to think of it as– it works and you have control over making it happen!

Strategy 5 Seek Support ASAP.

When something does not work in your online class (technical problem) or something is missing (a link or a file), contact the responsible people immediately. The longer you wait, the further you fall behind. Online learning is about initiative: You have control over resolving the problems!

Strategy 6 Join In- Be Part of the Community.

More than a traditional classroom, you really cannot afford to hide in an online classroom. With a click of the mouse your instructor can see all of your interactions and will grade you accordingly. To gain the most for your time and tuition, join into the discussion fully, get to know your peers and be involved. Successful students find this interaction becomes the richest part of the online courses, and yet some people lose so much by not truly being present.

Strategy 7 Finish Strong.

Like many long term projects, running the race is difficult. In online learning finishing strong is just as important as the rest of the course. Often online courses are designed such that the final sessions wrap the content together in projects, activities or special discussions to deliver maximum learning. Do not cheat yourself; finish strong so you gain the benefit of these special features.

More to Come…

Future articles will continue to provide “Suggestions for Success” in all areas related to online learning and teaching. From learning online to designing classes and teaching them, there is much to share and contemplate in maximizing this medium for your success.

Written by, 
Dr. Kathleen P. King (EdD)
Certified Coach, Author, Keynote Speaker, Professor of Education
http://www.facultyspeaker.com

About Dr. Kathy King

Dr. King is an award winning author of 17 books (3 more in process at this time) and a dynamic, interactive keynoter, and author who invigorates audiences on a variety of professional topics. From developing a publishing agenda and writing skills, to coping with changes in the workplace, to navigating organizational demands, developing leadership, meeting the needs of 21st century learners, and distance learning, she is always “Helping Professionals Reach Their Dreams.” Kathy is an active member of several professional groups related to professional writing and speaking in addition to her research communities: American Society of Journalists and Authors, Textbook and Academic Authors, American Society of Training and Development and National Speakers Association. Contact Kathy to discuss speaking engagements, coaching and consulting services.

Portrait photography by Joe Henson