Best Practices for Online Students

three computer screens showing people meeting online

Be Flexible and Patient
You will most likely encounter some bumps along the way with the technology and your own learning. For instance, your Internet connection may be dropped unexpectedly, an important Web site may not be available, or you may not be able to find what you are looking for in the online course. No matter what, stay on your toes and you'll be OK!
In addition, "online" does not mean "instantaneous." When things seem to stick or lag online, keep cool and have some patience. Some web-based tools take longer to load, some documents may need more time to display, and some communications need more time to send. Remember that clicking too many times to accomplish the same task can have an adverse affect on what we are trying to do. It's similar to pressing an elevator button multiple times. It does not make the elevator appear faster!

Establish a Routine
Learning online requires as much time as taking a face-to-face course. You may find the freedom to accomplish the tasks online intimidating at first. As best as possible, establish a routine and avoid procrastination. Try to stick to the course schedule and required deadlines. Set aside sometime each day for completing the course readings or activities. After a short while, you will begin to feel more comfortable and confident as you settle into your routine.

Maintain Your Computer and Your Files
Computers are an essential part of your online learning journey. If you own a computer, be sure to regularly organize your electronic files, update operating system software and other supporting systems such as browsers and word processing programs, and protect your computer from electronic viruses.
Technology can be unstable at times, so make sure you back up your important files. Keep copies of course documents and assignments on your computer, in the cloud, or on a portable drive. Losing your work is one lesson you do not want to experience.

Communicate Professionally and Clearly
The same standards of courtesy and conduct are expected in online learning as you would follow in a face-to-face environment. Treat your instructors and fellow students in a polite and respectful manner. Respect others’ thoughts and ideas. Be constructive in challenging different views and explain where you disagree and why.
Learning online can be writing intensive. Communicating in writing is much different than communicating in person. Someone may misinterpret your meaning when they cannot see your expressions or hear the tone of your voice. The following recommendations should help you get started. Similar best practices are often referred to as "netiquette".

Write clearly and concisely
Keep your questions and comments relevant. Use full sentences, including proper grammar and spelling. In other words, avoid "chat" type text.

Avoid plagiarism
Always express yourself using your own words. When using someone else's words to help describe or support your point, quote or credit your source.

Create Drafts
When composing long messages or emails, you may want to draft them off-line first to avoid any possibility of losing your work. You can also take advantage of spelling and grammar checkers when drafting off-line.
Email Properly
Always include the Course number "MUS102" and a Subject for each email. Always sign your name at the end to inform your instructor who's sending the message.

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