More and more students are taking college coursework online, and the popularity of these classes is largely due to their accessibility and their flexible nature. Research by U.S. News and World Report shows that more than 20 million students took at least one course online in 2019 and 16 percent of all higher education students are enrolled exclusively in online coursework for their degree programs.
What’s important to know is that, while you may have developed the skillset needed to succeed in a classroom setting, online learning poses special challenges and requires a different approach. Here are a few tips to help you ace your online course.
Get to Know the Required Hardware and Software
Any online course will have technical requirements without which you won’t be able to access the coursework or submit assignments. If you can’t get the readings, lectures or class discussions, you won’t succeed in the course. Make sure to plan ahead by learning what hardware and software you’ll need before the first day of class – and learn how to use it, too.
Make it a Point to Introduce Yourself to the Instructor
Online courses don’t allow for the opportunity to meet your instructor face to face, but that doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from building a relationship with the person who will be grading your work. Getting to know your instructor will make it easier to ask questions, and it’s easy to set up an introductory call with a free technology like video conferencing.
Limit Your Distractions
It’s so easy to become distracted when you’re doing virtual coursework, and this trips up many otherwise successful students. Make sure you create a workspace for yourself that allows for deep concentration. Do your work in the same place every time in order to condition your body to concentrate in that physical space. If you need to, use noise canceling headphones or leave your phone in another room while you study.
There’s no doubt that online courses offer a wonderful opportunity to learn remotely. However, they pose different challenges than traditional classes. Luckily, a little focus and planning ahead can help you overcome them.
Image via Flickr/GotCredit