What do I need to know about Online Courses?
Student success in online education is very important to us. Here are a few basic guidelines you should consider prior to starting classes.
ONLINE DOES NOT MEAN EASIER: Successful online students have to be very proactive in their studies and take responsibility for their learning. The classes are NOT easier than campus classes – just offered in a different format. Be willing to commit the time necessary to be successful. Online classes require much more time than a face-to-face class. Logging in daily and completing work ahead of schedule are important for success.
TIME MANAGEMENT: While there are many reasons to take an online course, one of the most frequent reasons students choose these courses is because of the convenience. Whether you have a full-time job, don’t want to fight traffic, or are raising a family, balancing school and personal obligations can become a juggling act. Time management may be the biggest factor in succeeding at your online course. Stay organized and avoid procrastination. You will not have someone there face-to-face to remind you of assignments. Schedule more time than you think you need for assignments and tests.
COMPUTER ACCESS, INTERNET, COMPUTER SKILLS: It is essential that students have reliable access to a computer and the internet either at home or on campus! Have a backup plan for your computer, printer, and internet. Save all completed assignments as a backup. Computer skills like using email, uploading files, and navigating a website are also important. It is essential to make sure you have the correct computer software.
ONLINE DOES NOT MEAN EVERYTHING ONLINE: Understand that certain online courses will require some time on campus, for example, some midterm or final exams and certain courses with labs will require you come to campus. Check the course syllabus or contact an advisor to find out more information.
CALENDAR: After registration, students will not have access to log on to their online classes until the first day online classes begin. Check the UACCH academic calendar for the current semester start dates.