Essential Skills for Online Learning
Success in online learning starts with the right strategies. Use the tips below to strengthen your study habits, manage your time, and make the most of your online experience.
Self-Discipline, Self-Motivation, and Time Management
The ability to be independent and self-directed in your learning while effectively managing time is key to success in online learning.
SELF-DISCIPLINE and SELF-MOTIVATION
To be successful, you will need to have self-discipline and self-motivation to regularly log in to the course, monitor deadlines, and complete your coursework regularly.
Know what your best learning settings look like and proactively turn off or minimize your distractions (including your mobile phone, music, etc.).
Be sure to read all of your instructor's emails, announcements, and communications. Often these will contain important deadlines, to-dos, assignment instructions, etc.
The key is to have a dedicated time set aside for your coursework and to minimize obstacles that hinder you from studying and participating.
TIME MANAGEMENT
You should expect to spend a minimum of 2-3 hours additional for each hour of class time. Therefore, in a 3-credit hour course, you should expect to spend at least 6-9 hours per week to complete the readings, assignments, and participate in class discussion.
Setting up a daily schedule, marking important due dates for learning activities and assessments, and blocking off time for reading course content and participating in course requirements is key.
Break up readings, assignments, and projects into smaller, manageable tasks.
We all have the same time available to us: 24 hours in a day, and 168 hours in a week - use your time wisely. Be sure to review these time management tips for some additional helpful strategies.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Space to Study
Create a quiet study space for yourself to read course materials, work on class assignments, and engage in the class dialogue.
Keep your space organized, keep yourself and your course materials organized!
Ask for Help
If you need help, do not wait, ask!
- Be willing to ask your professor for help.
- Ask classmates or colleagues for support.
- Use online Student Help for Blackboard resources.
- Get technical troubleshooting support from the IT Service Desk.
- Connect with GVSU student support services and resources.
