Online Learning Strategies

How to Succeed in an Online Course

Whether you're new to online learning or you're a pro, every course has its own structure, pace, and types of activities. Here are some strategies to help you be successful.

  1. Get in the mindset of owning your learning. Our courses are designed to give you flexibility in how, where, and when you do things, but that also means you're responsible for keeping track of tasks, staying on pace, establishing good study strategies, and seeking help when you need it.
  2. Look through the syllabus calendar and module layout and establish a routine. Take time to get familiar with the class's routine and schedule your own work time accordingly. Because our courses are fully online, the activities you'll do each week are a combination of what would've been in-class work and homework in a traditional face-to-face class. This means that each week will appear to have a substantial amount of work, but this is because you're seeing both types of activities. A typical week will take the average person approximately 2 hours of "in-class" work and 4-6 hours of "homework" for a total weekly time commitment of 6-8 hours.
  3. Know the best ways to get help, so you're prepared if something comes up. For these courses re recommend the following.
    Tech problems: contact the Office of Distance Education E-Learning (ODEE) Resource Center for tech problems or call 614-688 HELP (4357)
    General questions: post on the Course Q&A discussion page
    Grades/Feedback: message the instructor
  4. Make sure you have the right tools. The Course Syllabus page has an overview of the technology needed for the course. In general, take time to familiarize yourself with the learning platform (Carmen Canvas, in our case).

Time Management

 

Managing your time is a critical component for success in online learning.

Our courses are released in weekly modules where students are expected to submit homework and class assignments. Each module will has a suggested weekly schedule to help keep you on track.

It is imperative that you set aside time in your schedule to devote to the course. Plan ahead and give yourself enough time to complete the weekly modules and avoid getting behind.

 

Questions?

If you have any questions regarding SIMCenter's online courses,

contact

Thea Bailey

bailey.608@osu.edu

Some Tips

1. Set aside time to take the course. Plan ahead. Schedule it as a meeting on your calendar, so it shows you're unavailable during the times you've set aside for coursework.

2. Find a place where you cannot be interrupted.

3. Ask questions! This cannot be stressed enough. Since this is a distance format, you need to be an active and intentional participant in order to get the most out of this class.