Online Learning

Online LearningHow to succeed as a student in an online course

IntroductionThe goal of this presentation is to help you understandWhat makes an effective online learning experience. or, restatedWhat makes a student an effective learner in an online course.

The next few slides will explain some key differences between a classroom course and an online course.

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Differences: Classroom and Online CoursesClassroomOnlineRigid scheduleFlexible scheduleTeacher-centered learningStudent-centered learningLecture-drivenTextbook-drivenVerbal communicationWritten communicationLess technologyMore technology

These five differences help describe what will make you a successful online student

Successful Online Student TraitsFlexibleSelf-motivated (you can make yourself do what must be done)Self-directed (you do not need someone telling every task, step by step)Willing to do lots of readingWilling to communicate through writingComfortable with technology

How students learn in an online courseACTIVITYDETAILSTIME (hours)Read/StudyBooks, articles, videos3-4 AssessmentsQuizzes/Exams1ForumDiscussion1Papers/PresentationsResearch/writing1-2TOTAL6-8

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How is online coursework graded?Most assignments or tasks are graded. When a course contains graded and non-graded assignments, the graded assignments are listed in the syllabus or marked in some other way.The grading scale is the same for classroom and online courses.

What is the schedule for an online course?Typically, an online course has a unit or module for each week of the course. Some, though, may divide larger units over multiple weeks. Unless otherwise stated in the syllabus or assignment, all work must be completed by Sunday night at 11:55 p.m. Some work can be done in advance, but the application will close assignments on their due date and not allow late submissions. (Hint: Keep a calendar of due dates!)

How will I do research for assignments?Course LibGuideOnline Library databasesChadwick LibraryPublic or school libraries near youSpecific resources indicated by the instructor in course materials

What hints or tips help online learners?Understand that online courses are not easier than classroom courses; they are more flexible and convenient. (Some believe OC courses are harder!)Time-compressed online courses (i.e. 8-weeks) are intensive because they cover the same amount of material as a full semester course. Prepare all written responses in MS Word or word processor where it can be saved and copied/pasted into assignment. Start major assignments (i.e. term papers) early.Make a schedule for working on your online course and keep it. Treat it like a meeting with yourself that you cannot miss. Ask for help early. Dont wait and fall behind. Your instructor and classmates are willing to help you.

ConclusionYour instructor, advisor, family, and friends care about your academic success. But no one cares more about it that you. You are the key to your own learning, especially in an online course. You will get out of any learning experience exactly what you invest in it.Online courses are excellent opportunities for flexible, self-directed learning if you are self-disciplined. Following the guidance in the presentation will go along way to making you the successful online learner you can be!