There are a few things one needs to have in order to be
successful in an online course or any course for that matter. In an online
course, no one is holding you responsible for your attendance. This means you
must hold yourself accountable and make time every night to check your online
courses. Now just because your checking your courses doesn't mean you are fully
engaged. You must also participate in any online discussions started by your
professor or your fellow classmates. Don't be afraid to ask questions whether
you need clarification from a classmate or maybe even the professor. I think
this next tip is the most important tip of all. You should always come prepared.
When you are prepared you are more relaxed and more willing to participate in
class discussions. This next tip is especially important for an online class! Limit
your distractions because if you are anything like me you will be distracted
fairly quickly! My biggest distraction while online is Facebook, I always have
a tab open so I can quickly check Facebook and a quick check turns into a 30 minute
browse! Last but not least take notes! When taking an online course, take notes
to help you stay on top of the material needed for the class because they will
help you when it comes time to engage with your fellow classmates in an online
discussion.
I understand completely on how addicting and distracting Facebook can be! And Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, etc...the list goes on. That is why I usually either silence my phone or just turn it off. I pick it up with the intention of only scrolling for five minutes and soon I've wasted a bunch of time. Or I'll "treat" myself to checking my newsfeed after I complete an assignment but before starting a different one.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it funny sometimes when you are in public and it seems everyone grabs their phone when a text or call comes through?
ReplyDeleteFacebook (and other media) does have a way of sucking you in, doesn't it? What strategies can you use to prevent it from becoming a problem?
ReplyDeleteSome strategies I have found that work are silencing my phone and putting it in a different room so I'm not tempted. Also I tell myself after I get half way through my homework I will reward myself with a quick facebook check! I have heard of a program that you can use to limit your facebook use, but I have not tried it yet.
DeleteOne of my biggest distractions is texting with my wife. Being away for 28 days, sometimes texting or instant messaging through g mail is our only way to communicate. It is definitely challenging when I am away to stay focused especially since that form of communication is my only connection to the outside world. Fortunately for me I have a very understanding and loving wife who is so very supportive. I give her a heads up of, "OK honey I am going in..." which signals its school time. Then I put my phone about 5 feet or so away. My phone is also my "hot spot" for online connectivity. And my wife would be the first to tell you my "pull" was Facebook. I really haven't gotten on there since school started. My wife had to tell me my sister got engaged. For me personally, seeing all the different individuals on here with different back grounds has been intriguing. My last school with my degree program we were just a bunch of tow-boaters with a common thread and a common path. Transferring to SEMO and interacting with some truly amazing and intriguing individuals has been a pleasant surprise. Great notes on feed back. Ronnie Illert
ReplyDeleteNatasha,
ReplyDeleteI think that your comment on doing the work in the class, being in charge of your attendance, and engaging in the discussions with the class is spot on! I also think that it is important to ask questions if you are not fully understanding a concept. Being prepared is also very important. I agree that that may be the most important way to stay engaged. Great job on identifying the distractions of working in an online class.