Strategies for the Online Learner

Virtual learning experiences for students are expanding rapidly. However, students need to be prepared for a different delivery system that requires specific personal characteristics and skills. To help you prepare for your online course, review the traits and strategies that will enhance your e-learning experience.

• Be open-minded about sharing life, work, and educational experiences as part of the learning process.The online environment should be open and friendly. In a virtual setting, most communication is written, so it is critical that students feel comfortable in expressing themselves in writing. Many students have limited writing abilities, which should be addressed before or as part of the online experience.
• Be self-motivated and self-disciplined. With the freedom and flexibility of the online environment comes responsibility. The online process takes a real commitment and discipline to keep up with the flow of the process. Students enrolled in OCEBA Virtual Academy are required to check their e-mail daily and to check their pace chart often (at least weekly). These practices will promote proper planning and timely submission of assignments. Students must know how to schedule their time wisely.
• Be willing to "speak up" if problems arise. Many of the non-verbal communication mechanisms that instructors use in determining whether students are having problems (confusion, frustration, boredom, absence, etc.) are not possible online. If a student is experiencing difficulty on any level (either with the technology or with the course content), he or she must communicate this immediately. Otherwise, the instructor will never know what is wrong.
• Be willing and able to commit to 4 to 12 hours per week per course.ONLINE IS NOT EASIER THAN THE TRADITIONAL EDUCATIONAL PROCESS. In fact, many students will say it requires much more time and commitment.
• Be able to meet the minimum requirements for the program. The requirements for online courses are no less than that of any other quality educational program. Successful students will view online as a convenient way to receive their education – not an easier way. Students must have basic computer skills.
• Accept critical thinking and decision making as part of the learning process. The learning process requires the student to make decisions based on facts as well as experience. Assimilating information and executing the right decisions requires critical thought.
• Have access to a computer with an Internet connection. The communication medium is the Internet through a computer connection; the student must have access to the necessary equipment.
• Feel that high quality learning can take place without going to a traditional classroom.If the student feels that a traditional classroom is a prerequisite to learning, he/she may be more comfortable in the traditional classroom. Online is not for everybody.

The online learning process requires commitment on the student’s part. Basically, the student needs perseverance and a desire to succeed.