Indeed, taking up a course online has its perks. You get flexibility, comfort, and some personalization of your educational track. This is something that could be ideal for people whose personal circumstances can’t get into conventional institutional education but still want a degree that’s looks just as good on your resume.
But just like any other commitment, enrolling for an online course means making the most of it. It also means not taking it for granted. Here are 5 things that you should do and 5 more things you shouldn’t do when attending online classes.
- On Making Time
DO make time for the online classes. Much of your school work will indeed be flexible, but you need make sure you do allot time for those commitments that you need to attend at a specific time. And even if you don’t have scheduled classes, make time to study for your lessons as well.
DON’T procrastinate. Contrary to what most people think, online learning will require a greater deal of responsibility simply because you don’t have to deal with the stresses of offline campus learning. Make sure you attend your classes and meet your deadlines. This means that you really have to take those assignments seriously. Some people participate in class with not even knowing what the lectures will be like and that can give a really minimize their capacity to participate in and learn from class, not to mention make a bad impression.
- On Preparedness
DO attend online learning prepared. This covers a lot of things. First, you need to be very familiar with the syllabus and know what’s going to be covered. If there are assignments prior to class, you have to be ready to bring them in as well. Secondly, you also have to be familiar with all the facilities and equipment that will be needed. This starts with all the hardware and software that you need to use from your end, to all the applications and other paraphernalia (i.e. websites) that you online facilitator will give you.
DON’T just “wing” your online classes. Today’s generations are blessed with technology that allows them to access the internet anywhere they like. That does not, however, mean that you can just decide to take your online classes anywhere. Make sure you are in a place that’s quiet and conducive for learning. Even when you’re travelling, remember that some places are always more ideal to take the online class than others. The comfort you find in online learning was meant to maximize your capacity to learn, not debilitate it.
- On Willingness to Learn
DO make the most of the material given to you. Sometimes it’s hard to access books and learning materials in the campus scene, but online learning gives you more access to what you are asked to browse through. The opportunities of online learning are endless, and it’s up to you whether you want to grab them or not, and you should!
DON’T be afraid to ask questions. Online learning can be very new to many people across the globe. If you are new to the experience, don’t hesitate to ask your instructors or administrators for guidance or advice. They are there to help you. Whether you are having issues with the technology or software you are using for class or there are things about your class or assignment that you didn’t understand, feel free to ask.
- On relating with others.
DO observe proper etiquette online. Remember that you are interacting with people too, and they deserve as much respect and courtesy as the person seated next to you in a classroom. Make sure to use proper language, especially when corresponding through emails or some other online communication. Most online classes involve participants from different cultures, so check your political correctness.
DON’T be tackless. If you know that the people you will be working with will be able to see you online, make sure that you behave as well as dress properly. This is no different from when you are actually having a face to face conversation with someone else. Even if they don’t see you, sometimes your posture and mannerisms (and even the fact that you’re bored) can be manifested in your voice.
- On overdoing it
DO take breaks. Take time off and deal with your offline life every now and then. Make sure you give your eyes a good rest as well.
DON’T spend too much time in front of the computer. Go out and stress inbetween lectures if necessary. Overworking yourself with online classes can be just as bad as campus learning. Your can burnout too, you know.
Online learning can be very challenging, but because it gives you things you can’t always enjoy in a campus setting, it can also be very rewarding. You just need to learn how to make it work for you.
About the author:
Cindy Bates works as a freelance writer at Bestessaytips. She used to write articles and share her knowledge and experience in the educational sphere.