Four Ways to Take Control Over Your Online Learning

COMMUNICATE: Most communication in an online class consists of messages between you and the instructor and discussions among class participants. If you have difficulty with an assignment or have questions, you must be willing to "speak up" to inform your instructor. Seek help from your instructor if problems arise. Carefully consider your communication - use professional respect and courtesy, whether interacting with your instructor or classmates. Remember that everyone has different challenges, so be mindful and supportive in your contributions.

CONCENTRATE: Create a dedicated study space and set a routine. It's also important to realize you can't just skim over the content and be able to have a clear understanding of when assignments are due and what is expected of you. Take notes as you navigate the assignments and course resources. Stick to a traditional schedule to maintain learning pace and rhythm.

DON'T PROCRASTINATE: It's often tempting to wait until the last minute. If you're a procrastinator, you may have already learned that sometimes things don't work quite as well as you had hoped. With online courses, it's better to get your work done a little ahead of time so if problems do occur, they can be resolved prior to the deadline.

MANAGE YOUR TIME: Login regularly to participate in the class - at least 3 times per week. Some students login as much as twice a day. Set the alarm or calendar on your phone to remind yourself. Commit approximately 6 hours per week per class. Break this time up into 30-40 minute chunks. Take brain breaks in between...get up and move, or do something different than sitting with your device.

Adapted from: Association for Library Collections & Technical Services and U.S. News and World Report