Preparing to explore an online course requires no less preparation than preparing to explore the wilderness. The online environment is new territory and very different than taking a course in a more traditional environment. The instructor is not there to guide you everyday and remind you about important deadlines and upcoming assignments. Use proper netiquette Be aware of information quality issues on the Internet Learn how to manage your time On any expedition time is an essential. Often explorers have a limited time to finish their journey because of other obligations or upcoming weather events.
Much planning goes into scheduling a journey.
Campsites often have to be reserved for particular nights, so keeping up with the schedule is crucial if the explorers want to have a place to sleep at night. Just because a course is online does not mean that it requires less time, energy, and dedication to succeed. Set up a schedule for yourself. Plan time to read the course material, respond to the Forum, and work on assignments. You will need to be aware of the course and check in at the course Web site often.