Online learning isn’t easy for everyone and can present a slew of new challenges not seen in the traditional classroom. As technology advances and more classes move online, it’s important to adapt to a new learning environment. We spoke with our Online RN to BSN team to get their top online success tips.
- Familiarize yourself with the course.
Take time before the class begins to review the syllabus, make sure links work, and even say hello to your professor. This will allow you to plan accordingly and ensure you understand the course expectations.
- Confirm technical requirements.
No one wants to log-in to class and find out they don’t have the right software. Prior to your first class meeting make sure you have a reliable computer and internet connection. Perhaps just as importantly, make sure you have a back-up plan.
- Connect with faculty.
Despite being online and not face-to-face, it’s important to connect with faculty early on. This helps you build rapport with your instructor and also ensures that you understand expectations for communication and the course.
- Get organized.
It goes without saying that being organized is an important part of success. Organization is even more important in an online learning environment as you will be responsible for remembering homework and project due dates. Be sure to add important dates to your calendar, schedule time to study and create a plan, and be sure you have supplies ready before the term begins.
- Establish a regular study routine.
Make sure you have a dedicated area that is quiet, clean and organized for studying. Once you decide on a study plan, don’t deviate from it.
- Complete assignments before the due date.
This allows time for peer review, but more importantly, it will help you avoid some major stress if work, technology, or something else causes delays.
- Participate and ask questions.
Just because the class is online doesn’t mean it happens in a vacuum. Being engaged will help you better understand the concepts you are learning and logging in daily will help you stay ahead.
- Use your school’s online resources.
Give the various resources available a trial run, so you know how to use them when they are needed. Make sure you bookmark favorite resources so they’re easy to find.
- Find a study partner.
Connect with a classmate and do peer reviews. This will also help you create a professional network for after graduation.
- Be proactive, not reactive.
Take ownership of your education and look for potential roadblocks so that you can plan ahead.
Online learning can be an adjustment, but with time and these tips, it can also be a very rewarding way to learn.
