For many, online learning is the ideal solution to a unique learning experience and personal development in a busy schedule balancing family, work and personal interests.
Here are some things to consider:
Time requirements: You are expected to put in the same amount of time for an online course as you would if the course was face to face - to read course materials, research and clarify your understanding of key concepts, participate in online threaded discussion boards, complete assignments, and study for tests.
Time Management: Although you have flexibility in the time that you access your course online, it still takes discipline to stay on top of each day’s readings, assignments and other activities. It’s important to manage your time each day to work on your course.
Communication: The online environment relies heavily on text. This means that you must be comfortable communicating with your instructor by writing your thoughts, questions, experiences, etc. in emails and discussion forums. You may have the opportunity to interact via web conferencing, audio podcasts, or other tools, but not all courses will utilize these tools. ALL courses will have email capability available to you.
Being proactive: You must be comfortable actively seeking out help when needed. Remember that your teacher has no way of knowing if you have questions, concerns, or are having technical difficulties. Keep in mind that a response to your electronic communication may not happen immediately. Stay on task and don’t wait until the last minute.
Attendance: You are required to log-in at least once, between 8 a.m. Monday to 3 p.m. Friday, each week. To be successful in an online course, you will need to access your course everyday to stay up-to-date on required expectations. You can access your course weekends and evenings, but in order to be marked present, you must log-in between Monday and Friday. If you are not logging in during these times the Board procedures for non-attendance will be put in place, which includes automatic withdrawal from the course if you do not log in for a period of three consecutive weeks.