The information compiled in this guide offers helpful hints for succeeding as an online student.  The information is divided into modules as follows.  Click on each sub-heading to go directly to that section.

• Succeeding from the Beginning
• Developing Study Habits for Success
• Managing Time Successfully
• Completing and Sending Assignments
• Ask for Help!

Succeeding from the Beginning

» If you haven't had much experience with computers and the Internet, take a computer class or an online tutorial before starting your Internet course.  Click here for help in improving your technical skills.

» Read, read, read!!!  Read all course information and/or the syllabus very carefully.  Look for details about the course requirements, meetings, assignments, testing procedures, media and technology used, schedule or due dates, and contact information.  If you do not find details about these topics, ask your instructor in the beginning!

» Make sure you have the tools and equipment needed to complete the class assignments.  Some classes require special software, video recorders, tape players, fax machines, etc.

» Make sure you have a dependable Internet Service Provider (ISP) and a computer and modem, preferably at home.  

» Become familiar with the course design by completing the Orientation to Online Instruction that introduces the course software.   Contact technical support with questions about features you do not understand.  Attend student orientation sessions. 

» Log into your course as soon as it becomes available.  Check out the web site for the campus delivering your course.  It should give you all the information you need to log in. 

» Contact your instructor right away to introduce yourself and ask any questions you might have about the course requirements, assignments, testing, special equipment or materials needed, etc.

» Advise your instructor immediately of any changes in your personal information, i.e. e-mail address, phone number, mailing address, etc.   Update your own personal information, if your course platform enables you to do so. 

» Get to know other people in your class through discussions, chat, email, etc.  Relationships with your online peers can help support and encourage you throughout the course.  Write in a way to allow fellow students and the instructor to see your personality.

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Developing Study Habits for Success

Study Skills.  Distance courses require the same study skills that make one successful in face-to-face classes.  We strongly encourage you to download and read Study Skills:  A guide to Better Grades and Real Learning (a 24-page booklet in .pdf format at the Indiana Career and Postsecondary Advancement Center. http://icpac.indiana.edu/publications/planners/studyskills/)

In addition, here is a link to useful college study skills information from other institutions:

Study Skills Self-Help Information from Virginia Tech
http://www.ucc.vt.edu/stdyhlp.html

Learning Styles.  Most people have preferred ways of absorbing or processing information.  We call this "learning style".  There is no learning style that is right or wrong but it's helpful to evaluate your strengths so you can capitalize on them. You may need to develop new learning strategies when your online course requires that you process information in ways that are less comfortable to you. 

Numerous learning style assessments are available online.  Check out one or more below.  Most people can learn in a number of ways…. we simply "prefer" some styles over others.

NC State University Index of Learning Styles Questionnaire
http://www.engr.ncsu.edu/learningstyles/ilsweb.html

The Keirsey Temperament Sorter II
http://www.advisorteam.com/user/ktsintro.asp

Study Tips

» Be prepared to study hard!  Avoid interruptions and distractions while you are working on your Internet course.

» Don't assume that your Internet course is easier.  In fact, expect to spend as much or more time studying as you would for a face-to-face class.

» Keep up with assignments!  Don't let yourself fall behind.

» Read, read, read!  Read all the materials and access the hyperlinks your instructor posts.

» Study in a place that is comfortable and free from distractions.  Take stretch breaks every 40 to 50 minutes.

» Be focused, organized, dedicated, patient, consistent, determined, and have fun!

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Managing Time

» Log in regularly.  While you may not "attend" class, you do need to establish a time to work on your Internet course.  Check the course site regularly for changes, additional information, announcements, etc.

» Keep a Calendar.  After studying the syllabus, mark deadlines, test dates, etc., in a calendar.  Mark items off as you complete them.

» Set your own goals and deadlines.  If the class does not have specific due dates, make them up for yourself.   Set specific days or times to complete online assignments.

» Keep established and recommended deadlines.  It is much easier to stay on schedule than to catch up when you fall behind.

» Don't procrastinate.  Don't wait until the last minute to do assignments or take tests. Allow time for technical difficulties--the web will be slow at times, and servers some times go down unexpectedly.  If you get your work done ahead of schedule, you'll have time to try again when problems arise.

» Communicate often.  Check your email often, and respond promptly to instructors and fellow classmates.

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Completing and Sending Assignments

» Read instructions carefully.  When in doubt, ask questions.  This helps you get to know what your instructor expects.

» Be prepared to apply critical thinking and decision making skills.  Rather than regurgitating facts, your online instructor may ask you to make decisions based on information you have gathered and processed. 

» Keep electronic and paper copies of your completed assignments. 

» When e-mailing assignments, also send a copy to yourself.  This way, you will know if the e-mail was sent successfully.  If possible, request a "read" receipt so you'll know whether your instructor received your e-mail.

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Ask for Help!

» Remember that your instructor is there to instruct.  Don't be afraid to ask for help!   Unlike in a face-to-face class, your instructor doesn't know you are confused, bored, or frustrated unless you tell them!

» Allow a reasonable amount of time for instructors to respond to email.  Most will try to respond as soon as possible or at least within 48 hours.  If they don't, try another method of communication, i.e. phone, fax, snail mail, etc.

» If, after different attempts, you still do not get a response from your instructor, contact the program or division chair and the distance education coordinator at the campus delivering your course.  Be prepared to give them specific information as to how and when you attempted to contact your instructor.

» Ask for help as soon as communication difficulties surface.  Do not wait until you have fallen behind or until the end of the course to share concerns.  Use any online evaluation forms that are available to you.

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