Title: Seven Steps for Online Learning Scuess
Course: Career Communication

Seven Steps for Online Learning Success

Online learning has become an increasingly popular choice in education, especially for adult learners. Many people underestimate the time and effort that is required to complete an online course. In fact, if you account for course readings, discussions, research, and assignments required in online courses, oftentimes you are spending more direct work hours in an e-classroom than you would in a traditional environment. If you are struggling in your current online classes or just beginning your descent into the online realm, review the seven steps for e-learners below to aid in your learning success.

Step #1 – Evaluate your schedule

Before beginning an online program, review your schedule. Determine if it is feasible to make time in your schedule for course readings, discussions, and assignments. Understand the program before you begin by talking with an advisor. Read the course syllabus and talk with the instructor or other students to get an idea of how many hours per week you realistically need for your schoolwork. Don’t accept the belief that you can just “fit in” your schoolwork here and there.

Step #2 – Prepare before your start date

At least 2-3 weeks before you begin your course, make sure you have all necessary materials. Ensure you have a stable internet connection, a computer or reliable access to a computer, and any programs you may need such as Word, PowerPoint, etc. Order your textbooks well before the course begins. You can order through your college bookstore, outside websites. Always get a tracking number for your item. One of the worst ways to start an online class is by being unprepared; this leads to unnecessary frustration!

Step #3 – Introduce yourself to your instructor and peers

Your instructor and peers are lifelines in an online classroom; it is important that you get to know who you will be working with. When you’re introducing yourself, especially to your instructor, provide some insight into your life. If you’re working full-time, have medical conditions, children, or other situations that may impact your schooling, it is important to let your instructor know ahead of time in case issues come up within the course. Put a face to your name by uploading a picture to share!

Step #4 – Create a feasible timeline for completion

Online courses have specific due dates for assignments and discussions, they are not self-paced. Plan out your weekly schedule over the course timeframe to ensure you meet all deadlines. It is always best to plan for more time than you think you will need rather than attempting to fit a lot of work into a short amount of time.

Step #5 – Make time specifically for schoolwork

The importance of having solid school time cannot be emphasized enough. Online learning provides the flexibility to work whenever you want, which is a great advantage for people with hectic schedules. When will you be able to focus directly on your schoolwork? It is often easiest to choose a consistent time that you can work on your school without distractions. For parents, this may be after your children go to bed. For full-time working students, this may be on the weekends. You may want to break up your time by working a couple of hours before and after work a few days per week. Whatever time you choose, ensure that you can meet the assignment deadlines.

Step #6 – Read assignment directions carefully

In an online environment, you typically won’t receive any face-to-face time with your instructor. Assignments are usually delivered in written form, and as a student, you are expected to read assignment directions and complete all requirements of the assignment. Failing to read an assignment carefully can result in a lot of work with nothing to show but a bad grade! If you are directed to write a 5-7 page paper, do not be disappointed with a lower grade if you turn in a 4 or 8 page paper. If you are unsure of assignment directions, immediately contact your instructor for clarification. Some instructors are happy to accommodate assignment modifications made by students; others prefer you to keep strictly to the instructions. It is best to ask your instructor first before you complete anything outside of the set requirements. Additionally, refer to the grading rubric so you can understand beforehand how you will be graded. Does your paper require MLA or APA format? Is your grade weighted more on content, grammar, or presentation? Know the answers to these questions before you begin any assignment.

Step #7 – Know your limits

Going to school or back to school is an exciting feat for anyone! As you complete your courses, constantly reassess your schedule and life situation. Know how much is too much. If you opt to take several classes at once to complete your degree faster, but find that you can’t handle the workload, rather than stopping the learning process, choose to enroll in one or two courses at a time. Create a support system of family and friends who can help you if necessary. Ask your partner to help you put the kids to bed so you have an extra 30 minutes to study. Meet for study dates with friends over a cup of coffee. Use your lunch hour to complete a discussion entry or catch up on your textbook readings. Unexpected events do happen in life, though. If you have a family emergency, medical issue, or cannot work school into your schedule, mee with an academic advisor to discuss your options. Whatever you do, though, keep your eye on the prize!

I hope that these seven steps will help to make your online learning experiences positive. Whether you’ve chosen an online platform for your learning needs because you’re a single parent, working student, or simply appreciate the flexibility online learning offers, when you make smart decisions in your approach to learning, you are sure to find success!

Original blog article referenced: Smith, E. (2010). "Seven Smart Steps for e-Learning Success."