Being a Successful Online Learner
In this evolution of technology everything is online. Banking, school grades, classes, shopping, bills, etc. You name it, its out there.
But as I continue to pursue education further being adult or adolescent, I need to take in consideration some thoughts of being successful online. Steps to help this process are:
1. Plan your time - As an online learning student, planning is your best weapon against procrastination. Without the set schedule of a classroom course, you may delay working on the course assignments and activities.
2. Log on to your course every single day-...or a minimum of 5 days a week. Once you get into the online system you will be eager to see who has commented on your postings and read the fedback of your instructor or peers.
3.Participate and Communicate - In an online class nearlly all communication is written. You should feel comfortable expressing your ideas and opinions in writing.
4. Use Learning Unit Objectives to Gudie Your Study - Each learning unit in a course has clear objectives that tell you waht you should be able to do by the timeyou complete the lesson. Use these as a guide to focus your study and to measure your success.
5. Contact Your Instructor When You Have Questions About the Course - Your instructor is available to assist you with questions about the course. Take full advantage of the course communication tools to share questions, comments and concerns with the instructor anytime.
Hi Lisa,
And a good two cents it is. This is excellent advice for online instructors. Quick student feedback really helps to keep the students engaged and moving forward in the course.
Gary
One thing I wanted to mention regarding instructing online is the importance of responding on discussion boards and being an active participant in the course as the instructor. Posting grades in a timely fashion is also very important. Also, it is vital to respond to student's emails ASAP because when they have a question, they need an answer NOW...not in 2 days or next week but immediately. Just my two cents~~ Lisa
Just a quick follow-up question on the online format and presentation. Is there any research to support learning gaps in online courses for technical fields where labs and operational procedures are simulated rather than performed live?
Hi Patricia,
Good points for all of us to follow. This is how we are going to be most effective in managing our time and intake of new knowledge.
Gary