Choosing the Right Online University

Students who excel in online education are typically self-motivated, proactive, responsible, and adept at managing their time. Understanding your learning style is crucial before selecting an online institution, although these skills can be developed through the experience.

Your first step in pursuing an online degree is to choose an appropriate university. Different institutions offer various specializations and accreditations. For example, Arizona State University and Southern New Hampshire University are both accredited and provide degrees equivalent to those from traditional campuses. Notably, your diploma from these online universities will not indicate that it was earned online. Both institutions offer complete four-year programs similar to their physical counterparts.

The University of Phoenix is another accredited option aimed at working professionals, featuring a unique structure compared to traditional semester systems. Courses are typically five weeks long and scheduled in the evenings to accommodate those with full-time jobs.

Conduct thorough research on potential schools to understand the courses, degrees, and costs involved. Once you’ve settled on a university, it’s time to immerse yourself in the online academic world. Slip on your slippers, brew some coffee, and prepare to engage with your studies.

Familiarizing Yourself with Course Platforms

Most institutions hold an orientation week for incoming students, including those studying online. It's essential to identify resources, understand how to access help, and learn to resolve technical issues as part of your orientation.

Some universities utilize proprietary software, while others use a leased and customized Content Management System. Blackboard and Canvas are two major platforms for course delivery.

For certain technical issues, you may need to reach out to a 24-hour technical support center rather than your instructor. Successful students know how to contact tech support and where to find assistance when technical difficulties arise.

Since online courses heavily rely on technology, familiarity with the interface between your computer and the course software is crucial. It’s not a matter of if problems will occur, but when. Knowing who to contact can save you time and reduce stress as deadlines approach.

Establishing a Regular Class Schedule

The most effective online students attend classes at the same time each week, similar to traditional college students. Determine a designated time to "attend class," whether that’s at home or in a café, to read assignments and textbooks.

Typically, a new class week begins on Monday with fresh content. One of the advantages of online education is its flexibility, allowing you to study at times that fit your personal, work, and social commitments.

Treat your online classes with the same seriousness as in-person courses. Set a consistent time and place for your studies to ensure you maximize your learning potential.

Study Effectively

Successful online learners often study as much, if not more, than those attending traditional institutions. The flexibility of online courses allows for self-paced learning, enabling you to get ahead if desired.

As a general guideline, for a three-credit hour course, expect to spend three hours in class and an additional nine hours studying each week. This is a rough estimate, as some classes may require more or less study time depending on their demands.

Students who succeed recognize the importance of diligent studying and resist the urge to assume they understand everything without review. This mindset may work in high school, but college often demands a deeper level of engagement with the material.

To enhance your study skills, develop a strategy for critical reading. Employing techniques like SQ3R can significantly improve your retention of the material.

When in Doubt, Communicate with Your Instructor

Effective students know to reach out to their instructors with questions regarding course material. Being in an online environment doesn't mean you won't have queries or that you can't seek answers.

In a traditional classroom, instructors can often observe when students are struggling. However, in an online setting, they rely on assignment submissions and quality of work to gauge student well-being.

It’s your responsibility to communicate any issues or questions with your teacher, taking ownership of your educational journey. Many online instructors hold "office hours" for one-on-one discussions, and some may even share their contact numbers for student inquiries during designated times.

Furthermore, online classrooms often include sections dedicated to student questions, ensuring that you have avenues to seek help when needed. Remember, if you have a question, chances are other students do as well.

Utilizing Writing and Tutoring Centers

In both online and traditional universities, successful students regularly take advantage of writing and tutoring resources. Even if your degree is fully online, your institution likely has a physical writing or tutoring center.

These centers are staffed with trained professionals and volunteers who offer assistance and workshops for introductory English and math courses. They can help with any assignment across various subjects.

While your instructor may not always be available, the staff at writing and tutoring centers collaborate with faculty to provide relevant support.

My most accomplished students frequently utilized these resources, drafting, revising, and editing papers with the help of peer tutors. Seeking help from tutors often resulted in improved grades.

Recognizing When to Seek Help

Successful students are aware of their struggles and know when to seek additional support. Everyone faces challenges at some point—whether due to personal issues, difficulties with course content, or a lack of motivation. The demands of the semester can feel overwhelming at times.

Some students may choose to withdraw, resulting in failing grades if they don’t officially drop the course. When you encounter serious challenges, reach out to your instructor. They can guide you or connect you to appropriate resources.

While an English professor may not serve as a therapist, they can refer you to counseling services if necessary. They can also assist with writing-related struggles.

Online learners often demonstrate a high level of responsibility and initiative, but they still need assistance from time to time. Conference sessions can be held online through video calls or in-person meetings, making it easy to connect with your instructor.

Your success in an online program often hinges on your ability to seek help proactively. Students who address issues before they escalate are more likely to achieve their goals.

Accessing Counseling Services

Life continues outside of school, whether you're enrolled in an online or traditional program. This can involve dealing with loss, emotional strain, or other challenges.

While instructors may not be equipped to handle every issue, universities typically provide counseling services as part of student fees. If you need psychological support, it’s essential to seek help. Your academic work can wait, and missing a test isn’t catastrophic. Teachers may allow make-up exams, but your mental well-being should be your priority.

Maintaining mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Online students can sometimes feel isolated compared to those attending classes in person, which can lead to overwhelming feelings.

Incorporating physical activity and social interactions is vital, just as it is for traditional students. However, when things become too difficult, don’t hesitate to reach out to trained professionals for support.

Understanding how to access counseling services is a key aspect of being a successful student. Recognizing when to ask for assistance is a sign of maturity and self-awareness.

Online education may not suit everyone; it demands significant self-discipline and accountability to stay on track. Yet, the ability to learn independently offers far-reaching benefits. If you can navigate online education successfully, you’ll be equipped to tackle a wide range of challenges. Persistence, determination, and knowing when to seek help are essential components of a rewarding online learning experience.

Remember, you are not alone. There is a vast network of resources available to support your academic endeavors. The best way to find your path is to explore different options. If the traditional college setup doesn’t appeal to you, online courses might be a better fit. Conversely, if you appreciate technology but find online classes isolating, consider hybrid programs. Ultimately, the right educational path is one that aligns with your personal needs.

Lee G. Hornbrook has spent 25 years teaching college English and specializes in the writing process. He is the editor of The Writing Prof. For free assistance with your writing, connect with Lee G. Hornbrook.

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