In our rapidly changing global world, millions of students are currently taking college-level online (distance learning) courses. Private and public universities in the United States and abroad offer certificate, baccalaureate,…
Adult learners make up the largest population of postsecondary institutions in the United States. For this group of students, the benefits of online academic programs are:
o To update current skills
o To learn new skills
o To earn a bachelor's or master's degree
o Fulfilling academic requirements necessary for a current position or promotion
o career change
o Fulfillment of certification or accreditation requirements
o Personal and spiritual growth and development
Not for the faint of heart, success in academic distance learning programs requires a high level of perseverance, discipline and motivation. A good candidate must be computer literate, be able…
As a student, you will need a desktop or laptop computer, an Internet service provider, a cell phone, software (e.g. word processor, financial spreadsheet, calendar and power point), a backup…
Ten tips for the successful online student:
o Have a credit or debit card ready to download e-books and other required course materials.
o Maintain a list of more than one bookstore in case a required textbook is out of stock. It's always a good idea to get a list of the textbooks…
o Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. I cannot stress enough the importance of communicating openly with your professor or lecturer about course material that…
o Find a tutor. If there are areas that you know need strengthening, have a tutor on call before the class begins. The telephone number of a computer specialist should…
o Time management will be crucial. Keep a planner. Read your syllabus as it becomes available and plan accordingly.
o Take your responsibility as a virtual team member. Your contributions directly affect the team grade.
oh exercise. Long hours at the computer can put a strain on your neck, shoulders, arms, and back muscles, not to mention your hands. Remember to stretch and tone regularly.
o Eat a healthy diet. Keep good healthy recipes handy. Hydrate. Avoid high-calorie snacks and eat lots of fruit and vegetables instead. Avoid white flour and choose high-fiber grains.
o Consult your doctor. A healthy body feeds a healthy mind.
o Keep in touch with your Academic Advisor to ensure you meet the requirements needed to complete your degree.
In the fall semester of 2006, 3.5 million students, or 20% of all US college students, took at least one online course (2007. The Sloan Consortium). It is predicted that…
© 2007-2008 Jeanna Foy-Stanley
Thanks to Jeanna Foy-Stanley