Online Learning

Six Strategies for Success in Online Courses

Taking online courses is a new experience for many students. You have a lot of flexibility in where and when you do your coursework. However, you'll have to create the structure of face-to-face learning on your own.

Here are our tips to help you develop the skills needed for online learning.

Treat Online Courses the Same as In-Person Courses

Online courses have the same academic expectations as face-to-face courses. It is up to you to decide when you are going to sit down and work, and then have the dedication to follow through. This is the biggest challenge we all face when working from home. 

One of the easiest ways to ensure you follow through is to set up a regular time for each class. (Your normal class schedule will work well for this!) This way, you will "show up" for class, just as you're use to, and you'll be off to the right start.

Create a Regular Study Space that Works for You

Whether it's a dedicated desk, a spot at your kitchen table or a comfy corner of your home, a regular work space will boost your productivity and help you stay organized. Try to always work in the same space, that way, when you sit down, your brain knows it's time to work. 

Try to find a study space that is quiet, and has the following:

• a good internet connection
• access to power/outlets nearby 
• no distractions

**If working in a shared space, have headphones on hand for listening to lectures**

Stay Organized

Staying organized is key to success in any course, but especially for an online one. Organize all of your files, documents and workspace in a way that makes sense to you. Keep a copy of any work you do on your computer in case of any tech problems that require you to resubmit assignments. Don’t forget to take notes for readings and lectures just as you would in any other class.

Improve Time Management Skills

With an online course, your schedule is up to you. Strong time management skills will help you keep track of weekly classes, upcoming assignments and future tests/quizzes. Exactly how you manage your time will depend on your course load, assignments for a particular week, and learning style.

The following are some basic options you can use:

• Make notes of upcoming assignments and tests on a calendar. You'll be able to visualize what's coming up and give yourself appropriate time to complete assignments.


• Create a weekly schedule for classes. If you liked your in-class schedule, why not use the same one while you're working at home? If not, you can create your own - but be sure to dedicate the same amount of time to each course as your former schedule had. Whatever option you choose, use the scheduled time to complete readings, watch lectures, study, and complete discussions and assignments. Remember - as with in-person classes, you will also need to schedule time for proper studying and completing assignments outside of class time.


• Create "check-in" points. Throughout online courses, you should check in with your schedule and calendar and make sure you are on track. Reflecting and adjusting will stop you from cramming at the end of the course!

Stay Connected with your Professor and Classmates

You are not alone! All of your classmates are taking the same online courses with you, and your professors are here to help. Many courses will feature discussions on LMS, just as they did for in-person classes. If your course lacks this, be sure to reach out and keep in touch in other ways - like emails, phone calls, or social media.

Don’t be afraid to reach out and say “hi”—stay in touch, we're in this together!