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DO's
Do manage your time.
You will need to stay
on top of your assignments and keep current
with any interaction required in your classes.
You'll find that managing your time wisely
will be critical in a Distance Learning
class. But, be aware that it is very easy
to spend either far too little time, or
far too much time on your class.
Do start your work
as soon as the semester begins and
pay close attention to any schedules or
guidelines that your instructor has given
you. They will help you to keep yourself
on-task and on-time. Since assignments can
be completed from virtually anywhere in
the world, at least anyplace you can find
a computer with an Internet connection,
there are very few excuses for late work.
Plan ahead.
Do
ask for help if something isn't going
right or if you don't understand something.
Even though you do not see your instructor
on a regular face-to-face basis, you are
entitled to regular contact with him/her.
Do take the time
to learn more about your online learning
space (if used),
such as WebCT or Course Compass. Learn how
to navigate through it and how to use the
course tools your instructor has included.
Find out what everything is for. Review
any help files you find along the way.
Do expect the first
week or two of your online class to be an
adjustment period. By
the third week, you should feel much more
comfortable with the program. Any technical
problems should be worked out, and the rhythm
of your class should take over.
Do take advantage
of the support services and resources
available through
Bucks. The Distance
Learning website has detailed information
on what is available for you.
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DON'Ts
Don't procrastinate.
Don't waste too much
time trying
to solve a problem that has you stumped.
Try to work out your difficulty. But if
you can't, call or send an e-mail to your
instructor or to the technical support staff,
whichever applies.
Don't use your electronic
correspondence tools improperly by
making inappropriate comments or inflammatory
remarks. Most people find it very difficult
to accurately portray emotions through the
written word. Before you hit the 'send'
button, make sure you haven't misread someone
else's comments and poorly worded your own
in response.
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Distant
learning takes practice, no one is spoon-feeding
you, you need to take an active role
in learning the material. If I need
help, I post a message on the bulletin
board or email the instructor. In the
distant learning Trig class, I will
use the tutor center. I use any resource
I need to complete my assignments and
understand the material. I will watch
the cd's or video's over and over again
until I really understand the concept.
Sometimes I get it the first time and
other times I need several reviews.
