Essential Skills for Online Learning

To be a successful distance learning student, you must have good written communication skills, meet the requirements, be self-disciplined, self-motivated, prepared, a good reader, organized, have good time management skills, and be willing to ask for help when you need it.

Written Communication

Be able to communicate through writing. In the virtual classroom, nearly all communication is written, so it is critical that students feel comfortable in expressing themselves in writing. Many students have limited writing abilities, which should be addressed before or as part of the online experience. This may require remedial efforts on the part of the student.

Meet Requirements

Be able to meet the minimum requirements for the program. The requirements for online are no less than that of any other quality educational program. The successful student will view online as a convenient way to receive their education – not an easier way.

Self-Discipline and Self-Motivation

To be successful, you will need to have self-discipline and self-motivation to regularly login to the course, monitor deadlines, and complete your course work regularly.

• Act, participate, and keep yourself on track. Know your what your optimum learning environment looks like and proactively minimize your distractions (including your cell phone, music, etc.).
• Engage and read. Be sure to read all your professor’s emails, announcements, and communications. Often these will contain important deadlines, to-dos, assignment instructions, etc.
• Login to Canvas and check your email regularly. The key is to have a dedicated time set aside for your course work and to minimize things that keep you from studying and participating.

Time Management

The ability to work independently and be self-directed in your online learning while effectively managing time is key to success in online learning. The general rule for class time and homework is the same for both in-person and online classes. You should expect to spend a minimum of an additional 2-3 hours outside of class for each hour of class time. For example, for 3-credit course you should expect to spend at least 6-9 hours per week to complete the readings, assignments and participate in class discussion.

• Use a time/task calendar or schedule and set reminders for logging in regularly. Setting up a daily schedule, marking off class time, note important due dates for the course, and blocking time for reading assignments and homework is key.
• Don't procrastinate and try to do all of your work in one sitting. Break up readings, assignments and projects into smaller manageable chunks.
• Use your time wisely. We all have the same time available to us: 24 hours in a day, and 168 hours in a week – use your time wisely.

Space to Study

Create a quiet study space that is free from distractions to do the course readings, work on assignments, and engage in the class dialogue. Keep your space organized, keep yourself and your course materials organized.

Ask For Help

If you need help, do not wait, ask! Be willing to ask your professor for help. Ask classmates or colleagues for support.

Take Care of Yourself

It may go without saying, but being a successful online student also includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water, regularly exercising, and overall prioritizing your time. Your physical and mental wellbeing are of high importance.