Online Education Success Tips

September 2008
M	T	W	T	F	S	S
« Aug
1	2	3	4	5	6	7
8	9	10	11	12	13	14
15	16	17	18	19	20	21
22	23	24	25	26	27	28
29	30

AIU, Capella University, Colleges, DeVry University, Kaplan University, Ransom Stone, U.S. Department of Education, Universities, University of Phoenix, Walden University, online colleges, online degree programs, online education, online universities

Online Education Success Tips

Online colleges and universities understand that successful online students are motivated, self-directed, and have good time management skills.

As Internet technology advances, the online experience gets richer, and the skills and equipment needed grow.

Here are some tips for successfully earning your degree online:

1. Understand that while online classes are more convenient than campus based, the course materials tend to be richer (text, audio, video, web) and the content challenging.

2. Courses require a commitment of about 5 to 10 hours per week for study time. Plan to set aside time to cover that commitment. Many students devote a block of time daily for checking their classes.

3. At a minimum, you should have a decent computer and a broadband Internet connection.

4. A better computer solution is to have the latest operating system, a good laptop, and the latest versions of software needed. One common software requirement – Microsoft Office – can be purchased through university vendors for a fraction of the commercial price. Many other software downloads for students are available free.

5. Log into courses with discussion boards at least 3 times a week. Check email and assignments. IM your professors and classmates. You will actually have more communication with faculty and fellow students online than in a traditional classroom.

6. If easily distracted, set up a study location with your computer and instructional materials handy. A private study area where children know not to interrupt unless the house is on fire is vital for student/parents.

7. Make the calendar your friend. Deadlines have a way of creeping up on you. Student desktops at top online universities will have the assignments well-organized for you. Good time-management skills make online success easier.

8. Know thyself. If you tend to procrastinate, set up a daily study routine. Don’t waste quiet time when you know assignments are due. If you have a laptop, wasted time can be turned into productive time if you are within shot of a wireless Internet connection.

9. If your online university offers a “campus” tour of your student desktop, take it. Technology is always advancing, and you need to get familiar with your school’s software. Login and get comfortable. You’re going to be spending a lot of time communicating with professors and peers.

10. For most online courses, note taking is a thing of the past. Discussion boards and chats and seminars can be archived, freeing the student to think and participate.

11. Participate freely in discussions. Online learning allows you to form your thoughts and enter your ideas on the discussion boards. The playing field is level. All students participate.

12. Online degrees are geared toward adult professionals. Not only can you learn from your professors, but you may also discover cutting-edge knowledge from fellow students and make valuable contacts.

13. If you need help, plug into your online university’s resources. Help may include net tutoring, help centers, technical support, and your academic advisors.

14. Be polite. Email and instant messaging have killed Miss Manners. Attack ideas, not the messenger.

Finally, take online education seriously. More and more students will choose online education as life gets in the way. Getting your degree online is almost impossible without commitment – and that included support and encouragement from your family and friends.

====

Ransom Stone advises prospective students on choosing the right online college or university degree program. Visit his blog at http://virtualjoefriday.com to learn more.