Taking an Online Class? Read These 3 Tips

Have you ever taken an online class - one that is taught over the Internet? I teach online courses and I've found that new students are often anxious. It's a whole new way of learning - without face-to-face contact. Lack of eye contact doesn't mean that online learning is ineffective. However, you need to be prepared and take an active role in order to ensure that you learn what you need. Here are the three most important things that you can do as an online student to ensure your success:

1. Log into class often. Log in to see the professor's announcements, but also to keep up with the online discussions and other activities. An Internet class requires that you do a lot of reading. Log in often so that you don't fall behind.

2. Ask questions. There is no stupid question. Really. If you have a question about how the course work, at least a handful of other students will have the same question. Also ask questions about the material. If you're unclear about something in the readings and the lecture or discussions haven't helped, ask. In an online class the students have a big role in determining the pace of the class and what is covered. Ask questions.

3. Read before participating. If your online class includes a forum or discussion area in which students are to post and converse with each other, be sure to read before posting. When a student posts without reading, it's obvious to anyone who has read - and irritates students and instructor alike. I've students email to complain about others. It happens. Don't be that student.