Those are good tips to share with students. Scheduling time to meet the requirements of the course is important--actually, it is one of the keys to success.
Those are good tips to share with students Sabina. Thank you for sharing them with the rest of us.
That is a good idea Alison. Thanks for sharing it with the group.
The time managament advice I give to students is:
They need to think of their online class/es the same way they think of on campus classes. On campus classes are 4 hours long and are on set days and times. I tell the student since the online classes are 24/7, they need to look at their schedule and decide what days and times work best for them and make that their school schedule with no interruptions. I tell them, during the times they set, if anyone asks them to go to the movies, the beach, lunch, etc... let them know that you are in class and when you are done, you will be more than happy to accomodate their invite/s.
Managing time - this is different for each student, and yes the instructors as well. As each of us have our own priorities and committments, what might work for some might not work for others.
As for useful and workable ideas depends on the person's style and preference. Naturally, we have to start with obtaining an organizer - though we have those online, sometimes technology can't keep up with us.
I normally tell students to enter evrything in an online calendar first. This way its easier to see the information while its in front of you not to mention its easier to make adjustments. The most important topic that people seem to forget is travel time to and form their destination - yes this part of your day as well.
As for class time, and by experience, my rule of thumb is to double the credit hours for the class and this is how much time you need to allocate into your calendar. I usually inform students to only go out as far as the term so they don't overwhelm themselves and to expect changes - as they always happen.
Once the information is entered online they can tranferr it to their organizer or as I, and I'm sure several people have as well, enter the information into your cell phone with reminder alarms. This way you are not constantly looking for your organzier.
One technique I have used is to pair successful student volunteers who are familiar with the CMS and the flow of our online courses with new students in order to mentor them through the first few weeks of using the system. It fosters a sense of community as well as better problem-solving skills when students are having technical or other issues.
I would also suggest asking students to share their best online class organization techniques in a discussion forum. Students might have some tips on how they organize their time that we never would think of!
Sorry Mark, I am not sure what you are asking. Workable time management ideas for students?
I would talk about breaking course assignments into sections. I use research, draft, final draft and assignment submission. So many wait until the due date and then panic because the assignment seems overwhelming.
Hi Mark-
Mind Tools usually has some pretty good time management tools. I also like to hold an open discussion on what tips students use and they can have a converstaion amongst each other. Also you can suggest making a schedule, a to-do list, using Outlook or a PDA, etc.
http://www.mindtools.com/pages/main/newMN_HTE.htm
