Taking an online course can be challenging as there are many factors than can interfere with your study sessions while you’re at home, at the library, or a café. It can become even more difficult when you’re taking more than one online course as there are many links and new platforms to use. This article will provide you with tips on how to complete an online course successfully.
- Tip 1: Review the course syllabus
- Tip 2: Keep track of links
- Tip 3: Understand your learning technologies
- Tip 4: Develop your study skills
Looking for more tips? Check out this Brightspace course that’s all about your UVic learning technologies.
Review the course syllabus
The course syllabus will give you a general overview as well as important dates.
Put these in your calendar (such as: midterms, assignments, projects, etc.). From there, set reminders and synchronize calendars across all of your electronic devices.
Spend time reviewing the content of your online course. This will help you understand what to expect and to keep you organized.
Keep track of links
Online courses are difficult to track if you miss a day. Put all your Zoom links into your calendar or in your course notes so that it is easier to join the class immediately without opening any other tabs.
Always ensure that you are up to date with course announcements posted by your professor or TA.
If there is anything that is not clear, consult the professor or TA for assistance.
Understand your learning technologies
If you are using any online tools for the first time, take a moment to learn the technology.
UVic Learn has some great documentation on how to use Brightspace or Echo360. There are also some great tutorials on YouTube.
If you still feel uncomfortable using any online platform then consult your professor or TA as soon as possible for any alternative methods.
Be an active participant. Ask questions on chat or video. Volunteer to be the spokesperson for your group.
Develop your study skills
Once you feel confident about your course materials and the learning platform, develop your study skills by:
- Creating a study schedule that helps you stay organized
- Finding your study space(s) and disable social media to help you focus without any distractions
- Breaking content down into smaller sections and setting a to-do-list to complete the section
- Taking scheduled breaks to help your mind recover and retain information
- Reading actively and writing notes in your own words
- Creating flash cards which will help you remember the course content