WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL ONLINE STUDENT?
The successful online student should
possess adequate computer, technology and time management skills. Online learning is not for everyone. Your individual learning styles and other
personality attributes may have a direct impact on your ability to be
successful in the online classroom.
Like the instructor,
the online student possesses unique qualities. The online students of today
consist primarily of working people who are trying to better their
opportunities. This however is changing, as more and younger and older people
become aware of the online model. The traditional school will never go away,
but the online classroom is a significant player in today’s educational
community. In general, the online student should possess the following
qualities:
Introverts as well as extroverts find that the online process
requires them to utilize their experiences. This forum for communication
eliminates the visual barriers that hinder some individuals in
expressing themselves. In addition, the student is given time to reflect on the
information before responding. The online environment should be open and
friendly.
In the Online Classroom, nearly all 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. This may require remedial
efforts on the part of the student.
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.
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 in the online environment.
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.
Online is not easier than the traditional educational process. In
fact, many students will say it requires much more time and commitment.
The requirements for online are no less than that of any other
quality educational program. The successful student will view online as a
convenient way to receive their education – not an easier way.
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.
The course content and interaction are engaged by computer through
the Internet. Some content and activities may be accessible by
"dial-up" or mobile services but most online learning will be best
accomplished with broadband service. The student must have access to the
necessary equipment.
Meaningful and quality input into the online classroom is an
essential part of the learning process. Time is given in the process to allow
for the careful consideration of responses. The testing and challenging of
ideas is encouraged; you will not always be right, just be prepared to accept a
challenge.
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Participate in the virtual classroom 5-7 days a week
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Be able to work with others in completing projects
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Be able to use the technology properly
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Be able to meet the minimum standards as set forth by the
institution
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Be able to complete assignments on time
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Enjoy communicating in writing.
Staying up with
the class and completing all work on time is vital. Once a student gets behind,
it is almost impossible to catch up. Basically, the student needs to want to be
there, and needs to want the experience.