VIDEO: Online Learning: Tips for Success

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IS ONLINE LEARNING FOR YOU?
According to the Illinois Online Network, the following are characteristics of successful online learners:
• Open-minded about sharing life, work and educational experiences as part of the learning process.
• Able to communicate through writing.
• Self-motivated and self-disciplined.
• Willing to “speak up” if problems arise.
• Able and willing to commit four to 15 hours per week per course.
• Accept critical thinking and decision making as part of the process.
• Have access to a computer and a modem, and have the ability to use them.
• Able to think ideas through before responding.
• Feel that high-quality learning can take place without going to a traditional classroom.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
• Be a noisy learner. Be active and creative in the learning process.
• Establish a presence online. Be sure to post an introduction on your blog, and fill out the user profile information on D2L. Include a photo so that your fellow classmates can put a face to the name.
• Push yourself to get involved and enter into the classroom discussion. I expect you to respond to all of student colleagues at one point or another in either the discussions or blog posts. I realize that some of you see another on campus and others are at a distance. Because of this, it’s not unusual for you to talk to only the people you know, but push yourself out of your comfort zone and make some new friends at a distance.
• Keep up-to-date with assignments. It’s easy to fall behind and tough to catch up.
• Use a detailed planner to keep track of your assignments.
• Email the instructor as soon as you foresee problems, not afterwards when you’re buried.
• Realize that online classes are not “easier” than seated classes, but depending on your skills may actually take more time. Pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses and set realistic timeframes for getting your work done.
• Have contingency plans for computer problems as well as late arrival of textbooks. Become familiar with the local library, Internet services, and community college resources. Seek out friends, family and even coworkers who have Internet services in case your computer crashes. This way you will stay current with your weekly assignments.