Online learning offers learners the unprecedented opportunity to work from the comfort of home. However, as students still enrolled in classes, which are still formal meetings, you’ll need to show up and demonstrate to your professors, teachers or facilitators that you are present, paying attention, and participating. There are some definite do’s and don’ts for students in the virtual classroom. Here are some reminders of how to be the best online student you can be.
The Do’s
1. Be punctual
As a student enrolled in online classes, attendance still matters. You’ll want to log into whatever online platform your professor or teacher is using. Make sure your computer is charged and be ready to appear on screen in a timely fashion. Being late is not acceptable. Be in class ideally at least 5 minutes before the designated time.
2. Read the syllabus
Read the syllabus ahead of time. Make sure you’ve read the required reading, or are prepared to participate based on the syllabus provided by your instructor. The syllabus is still your road map to successfully passing and excelling in the courses you’re enrolled in so don’t forget to look at it beforehand.
3. Test your tech
Glitches in your technology mean you could miss some vital part of your lesson or lecture. Make sure the camera is stable and that your audio or microphone works. Use headphones to make sure you can hear everyone. Plug in your computer and make sure it’s charged ahead of time.
4. Introduce yourself and respect your peers
Make sure you introduce yourself and talk in a slow steady pace when contributing to the class session. Sound quality will differ depending on each student’s home office set up. You’ll want to make sure people can hear you and that you can hear them. Make sure you respect your fellow students and allow them the microphone floor when they are speaking.
The Dont’s
1. No excuses for bad tech
As a student enrolled in an online class the professor will expect you to be able to set up your technology accordingly to log in on time and to participate fully. And just like you can’t blame your dog for eating your homework, you can’t really blame your performance in your online class on technical problems.
2. Don’t be afraid to speak up
Even in-person classes require students to be active participants, so don’t be a wallflower. Your teacher will be expecting you to participate even in an online class. Make sure you offer your opinions and thoughts in a discussion session. Don’t be afraid to speak up. In some ways there is less stress associated with talking into a microphone than in-person.
3. Don’t think you’re doing it all alone
Online learning can feel very isolated and lonely at times. Change this feeling by collaborating with a classmate. Set up an in-person meeting and study date. Your teacher might also assign group projects which will make you feel more connected to your fellow students. Don’t think you’re in it all alone. In fact, there’s an entire group of other students in the same boat as you. Connect with them in our online forum discussions.
4. Don’t get discouraged
A positive attitude will help get you through your online classes. Make sure you give yourself breaks. Take walks, have a cup of coffee or tea break, commiserate with a friend who is also taking an online class, take a break, and schedule some time in your day, every day, that is screen-free.
Others useful tips: 1. Mute yourself to avoid unnecessary background noise when attending a class
2. Be prepared, Get to the point and engage the audience (If you are presenting)
3. Be ready to take notes. 4. Give your full, focused attention. 5. Participate fully. 6. Don’t dominate the discussion. 7. Please Do ask as many questions as possible.
8. Review your notes and the recording later.
9. Keep up with all assignments.
10. Check your email regularly.
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