Online courses are convenient and a
great way to further any student’s education. However because of its different
format, it’s easy for students to get lost in the mix. In order to be
successful there are 5 mistakes students want to avoid:
Procrastinating:
Procrastinating:
Procrastinating
is no stranger to the education world. Students and teachers alike are very
familiar with the evil ‘p word’. Many online students believe that since they
have more control on when assignments and studying are to be completed,
students tend to get behind. Once a student gets one or two assignments behind,
they start to put off work because they know it’s going to be more difficult.
Do not procrastinate! Set enough time each day to log on and complete what is needed.
Not
buying the material suggested:
Too often
enough, students ignore what the teacher suggests the student needs for the
course. Many think because the course is online that the actual physical
textbook is not needed. Some courses may require you to get a specific software
or internet speed for your computer. The best rule of thumb to follow is: to
get everything your teacher suggests. If money is an issue, consider purchasing
used textbooks and software programs.
Not
building a relationship with peers:
Always
think of your online class as a real on campus class. Just because you can’t
see your fellow peers, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t reach out to them for help.
Create groups online with the students and get to know each other. Consider
setting a Facebook group for everyone to meet on when there are projects or
questions.
Not
building a relationship with professor:
Forming
a relationship with your online instructor is just as important as the
relationship with your peers. Online courses can be difficult at times and your
instructor is the number one person to contact when you start to have problems
or questions. You can’t always rely on your peers for answers. Send an email to
your instructor, introducing yourself, when the time comes for help the professor
will remember your name, making communication easier.
Not
logging on enough:
Logging in every other
day is never enough, especially for that much needed letter grade. Log on daily
if not twice a day. Logging in often will help you stay abreast of any new
assignments and news. The more you log on, the more you will know. Even if you
just log on to the course to for a minute, it counts.
Heather
Smith is an ex-nanny. Passionate about thought leadership and writing, Heather
regularly contributes to various career, social media, public relations,
branding, and parenting blogs/websites. She also provides value to become a nanny by giving advice on site design
as well as the features and functionality to provide more and more value to
nannies and families across the U.S. and Canada. She can be available at her email.