Success in Online Courses: It takes more than just a computer.
Taking an online course, whether through SDSU or another college, can be a great way to add some flexibility to your schedule. Online courses are also a good opportunity to improve your writing skills because you’ll communicate almost entirely in writing during the class.
Although some courses require you to be online at a certain time of day, most allow you to work at the time of day most convenient for you. Be aware, though, that assignment deadlines in online courses are just as strict as in campus courses.
Something students often don’t realize is that in a traditional classroom, instructors try to gauge how well the class is comprehending the course materials by observing facial expressions and noting the questions asked. They don’t have these same cues in online courses, so use the online discussion forums to let the instructor “get to know” you. Participate often and engage your classmates in lively discussions on the course content. Your instructor will notice.
Here are a few simple Dos and Don’ts for success in an online class:
Do |
Don’t |
|---|---|
do read the syllabus thoroughly and contact your professor with any specific questions |
don't delay in reading the syllabus or email your professor with complaints (i.e. “I don’t see why I should have to . . . “) |
do participate actively in course discussion forums |
don't assume that course activities are optional |
do pay close attention to assignment deadlines |
don't assume that assignment deadlines are flexible |
do be thoughtful and respectful in your course comments |
don't saying anything to your instructor or classmates that you wouldn’t say in person |
do enjoy the experience and don’t be afraid to ask questions |
don't get frustrated and stop participating |
do commit yourself to the course just as you would a campus class |
don't Schedule vacations during your online term |
do log into the course as often as possible, ideally once per day |
don't plan to “cram” a week’s worth of activities into one day per week |
Julie has been teaching online writing courses for five years and truly believes that you can get a good education online, if you take it seriously.
