It is 5:55 pm on Monday night and the computer has yet to boot up. The sound of your fingers furiously tapping the desk fills the room. Finally, the computer is up and running. You look over; it’s now 5:58 pm. Time is running out as you impatiently wait for the homepage to launch. Striking the keyboard in a mad fury, you try to remember your password. Suddenly, a feeling of dread crosses your mind as the clock strikes 6:00 pm, you wonder, “Do we have something due today!” “Welcome back class!” announces your professor, “Please click on the Virtual Resource Center icon. It is time for your test over Chapters 1-4.”

There’s no need for this to be an online learner’s nightly experience. You’ve completed the college application process. The check has been sent. Now, find out the answers you need to know about online education.

By signing up for a virtual class, you have enrolled in one of the thousands of accredited courses now offered online. Yet, large numbers of students remain uncertain about participating in online courses. There is no need to worry. In fact, you probably already possess all the qualities you will need to succeed in online learning. Just in case, we’ve listed a few helpful hints to guide your distance learning experience.

• The motto, always be prepared, works in the virtual classroom too:
  It is a simple rule of thumb to explore before you are asked to perform. For example, it is always a good idea to visit your classrooms on a college campus the day before school starts. So why not do the same for your online courses? First, log into your computer with your user ID and password to make sure they both work properly. Then, before classes begin, schedule time to complete the online tutorial covering key computer functions and technical support. Tour the virtual classroom, including the assignment page, classroom lounge, and external links.
• Deadlines, Deadlines, Deadlines:
  Get your calendar straight. Once you are given an assignment or test date, mark it on your schedule. Set aside time to meet your classmates in a digital lounge to discuss class materials if need be. Log in to your class site daily to check for new announcements. In this fast-paced world, where technology is constantly at your fingertips, there is no reason technology can’t work for you. On the days leading up to a test, set up your email account or phone to send you digital reminders.
• Initiate and maintain a dialogue with your instructor and fellow classmates:
  Office hours are a must for all professors. Don’t be afraid to schedule an appointment for an online chat or video conference with your professor. If you are going to miss class or be unable to make a deadline, let your instructor know as soon as you know. Meet fellow students in a chat lounge to discuss-and gain a wider perspective on-assignments.
• The resources are at your finger tips…use them:
  Online course offer a continuous flow of interactive resources, including streamed videos, audio lectures, and external links. Forget having to drive to the library to check out a book for class. The majority of online course now have virtual resource centers or libraries set up for your convenience. Collect any useful links in a Favorites Folder for easy access.
• Typing is for academic discussion, not playful chat:
  Don’t let your love for IM chat handicap you in the online classroom. The online classroom demands the same etiquette as the traditional classroom. The writing or typing performed for class is to be part of the ongoing academic discussion. Therefore, your writing style and language should reflect the academic environment. Language should also be clear and precise to ensure clarity.
• Keep a copy of all sent materials:
  By keeping a continuous record of all class materials and discussions, you can check your progress. If your teacher has made comments about a paper, you will be able to look back over the notes for future reference. Not to mention, when technical difficulties come knocking at your door, you will be ready with a saved electronic (or hard) copy of the work at your disposal.
• Whatever you think won’t happen inevitably will:
  Life happens. We all know this and your professor does too. As long as you keep your instructor informed about your situation, an alternate plan can usually be devised for problems that creep up along the way. Remember to allot special time for studying and reading class materials. If you prepare in advance, you will have plenty of time to fix any oversights or mistakes down the road.

The virtual world of distance education is an exciting place to be. Though you have just begun your journey, fresh opportunities provided by new online innovations are just around the corner.

Article Source:

Sull, C. E. (2007). A guide to making the grade online [Electronic version]. USDLA Today. 1(2), 4. Retreived May 7, 2007, from http://www.usdla.org/