Online Learning
Tips for Succeeding with Online Courses
Create a support structure.
The most successful students have committed mentors who are willing
to spend time to make sure they meet the expected weekly milestones.
Students need to be held accountable to the commitment they give before
enrollment. Some schools develop a "contract" between the
students and the school and have it signed by both parents and students.
This puts their commitment in writing and brings in parent involvement
as well.
Establish a designated time and space
to study.
This will help lend importance to what students are doing as well as
keep them organized. Both in school and at home, students should have
their own space to work in peace. This includes Internet time that does
not interfere with other classes or family use of the phone line.
To help keep students focused, online course providers strongly recommend
that schools assign a specific class period (and specific computers)
to the students during a regular school day. The asynchronous format
of most course work makes it very convenient for students to fit the
online course into any open period.
Get comfortable with computers.
Students need keyboarding skills and experience with computer navigation.
Many virtual schools require students to go through an orientation to
learn their software tools (navigation, drawing, writing, highlighting,
etc.). To get the necessary practice and to be successful with their
courses, students need adequate (daily) access to a reliable computer
with an Internet connection.
Read other tips for success in online learning.
