Tips for Being a Successful Online Student

Online courses are a great way to attend college without having to travel to campus. It will take the proper mind-set, as well as discipline, to be successful in the virtual classroom. Here are few tips, adapted from the Illinois Online Network, to help you: 

1. Be open-minded about sharing life, work, and educational experiences as part of the learning experience.
2. Be able to communicate through writing.
3. Be self-motivated and self-disciplined.
4. Be willing to "speak up" if problems arise.
5. Be willing to commit 5 - 10 hours a week per course.
6. Be able to meet the minimum requirements for the program.
7. Accept critical thinking and decision making as part of the process.
8. Have access to a computer and a modem.
9. Be able to think ideas through before responding.
10. Feel that high quality learning can take place without going to a traditional classroom.

Sometimes people think that online courses are easier simply because the content is delivered at home and the student can learn in the environment that he or she chooses, whether it's the local coffee shop, public library, or in their home. Just because the student does not have to attend a brick and mortar location at a pre-determined time does not make the accountability for learning less.

Lori Hopp, GCDF

lorihopp.com