How to Succeed in an Online Course

At first glance, it may seem easier to take courses online than in traditional classrooms and in some ways it is. Still, taking online classes comes with its own set of challenges

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• time to study
• ability to self-motivate

1. Evaluate yourself to find out if online learning will be beneficial for you. Because ways of learning differ, some people are better served by real-time, face-to-face instruction.

2. Make sure you have the time to devote to classwork. Online traditional classrooms all of your lectures, classwork, testing, and class participation happens on your own time. Make sure that you have space in your schedule to accommodate.
   
   This is also an advantage of distance learning because you can work your class around your existing schedule.

3. Let you housemates know that you are in school and that you need uninterrupted time to study. This may not work (especially if you have small children to care for), but it could save you some frustration to have your housemates aware of your online work.

4. Take advantage of your anonymity. Don't be afraid to fully participate and ask questions when you need to.

Tips & Warnings

• It helps to have easy access to a reliable computer and internet connection.
• Don't take on more than you have time to. You'll be setting yourself up for failure.

[chefjwin]

on 12/4/2009 These are all great tips. I've taken some online courses myself, and they can be very difficult if you have too many distractions around you. 5*

[jaredsgirl]

on 4/13/2009 Great article for succeeding in an online course. I've taken online courses and they can be difficult if you don't devote the time and discipline yourself to do the work. Thanks for sharing. 5*

[CoffeeGirl21]

on 3/6/2009 i've taken a few of these.Nice tips