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DISTANCE LEARNING
STUDENT NEWSLETTER VOL 1
Welcome! It has been
almost three weeks since classes have started, and by now you should have been contacted by your instructor(s) and have started your readings. (If not, check your Blackboard!). Here are some ways to make the most of your experience:
HOW TO SUCCEED IN AN ONLINE
COURSE
- Allocate time for your online class. Online classes are great because they allow you flexibility and greater power over your schedule. But in the wise words of Spiderman, "with great power comes great responsibility," and in this case it rings true as well. This flexibility means that you have to manage your own time and take the initiative to schedule time for your online classes. This will help you stay on top of things and will save you the trouble of doing a full semester's work during finals week.
- Get involved. Don't forget that participation is a factor in your grade. Check the discussion board on Blackboard several times a week and contribute by leaving comments and responding to your classmates. Not only is this helpful to your grade, but also to the overall experience, as you interact and get to know your classmates and professor. Textbook knowledge is stagnant; this is your chance to take your learning outside of the book and generate ideas, and really get the most our of your education.
- Be proactive. If you are having any issues or difficulties with the class, communicate your issue to the professor sooner than later. If you are on campus, visit your professor at his or her office. All professors have office hours for their students, and they are there to help you. So if you are having any trouble with the course work you can stop by and see them in person and tell them how things are going. Your professor can accommodate you much better when he or she has an understanding of your situation.
Implementing these practices into your class will help you reap the full benefits of your education, so put them to good use and you will have no excuse not to do well!
TIPS FOR ONLINE LEARNING NEWBIES
Kristen Insalaco
 In fall 2008, I enrolled in an online class because it allowed me to work at my own pace from the comfort of my home or desk at work while still meeting the demands of my job as an event planner and public relations practitioner.
I liked the format of an online class because it didn’t require a grueling 40-minute commute to and from campus and my employer liked it even more because it meant I didn’t have to cut my workday short for class.
Like my mother always said, hindsight is 20/20, so I thought I would share some tips that I’ve learned for the online learning newbies.
- Test your equipment before the first class.
An essential part of an online class is the ability to communicate remotely, so if your microphone or camera isn’t working on your computer, you might lose valuable time upgrading your equipment and playing catch up when such time may be necessary – particularly in a difficult class.
- Get a planner.
Much progress in an online class can be attributed to proper planning. Because your instructor won’t be reminding you of upcoming assignments in a classroom, it is incredibly important to jot down important deadlines to avoid late assignment deductions.
- Give yourself enough time to complete assignments.
One of the biggest misconceptions of online learning is the idea that such classes are easier than traditional classes. In reality, online coursework is typically more work-intensive and requires more attention. Setting aside proper time each week for online class sessions and assignments is critical to success.
- Script your answers prior to recording voice assignments.
Most online classes require recording reactions to assignments using the microphone on your computer. Unless you are a radio host, you’re not familiar with talking to your computer by yourself for an extended period of time. If you script some talking points prior to recording your reaction, the result will be clearer, more coherent reactions, which could mean the difference between a B+ and an A.
- Apply your knowledge after class.
Don’t be afraid to brag about your experience with online learning with a current or prospective employer. Having new media experience is attractive to employers and may set you apart from your competitors. Also, if your class requires podcasting or online posts, continue practicing your new skills to stay sharp.
Kirsten Insalaco is a
freelance public
relations writer/consultant. She is also a
candidate for an '09 M.S. in Communication
Management from Temple University's Strategic &
Organizational Communication Program.
TEMPLE RESOURCES
Student Resources
Links
to student services such as the writing center, libraries, DARS, and much much more.
Liveclassroom Help:
New to
Liveclassroom? View our video tutorials online!
Did you know?
You can access Live Classroom from Temple computer labs, just be sure to bring your microphone and headphones (these are available for purchase from the bookstore on campus).
Online
Research Tools:
Research can be stressful. The library can help.
LibGuides offer guidance to help you get all A's all the time (we guarantee or your money back). Browse links to subject specific resources and websites, get search tips, and much much more. All for the low price of zero dollars! That's right, no money down! A librarian's contact information is found on every page. If you don't find what you need, Ask the Librarian, they are here to help.
Find LibGuides at
http://guides.temple.edu or look for a
library/research link in your Blackboard course.
TECH TIPS!
De-fragmentation can make your computer faster. For more information and instructions, visit the following links:
Windows XP
Windows Vista
Mac OS 9.0, and earlier
Mac OS X series
Check out
Computer Service's
Bits & PCs
for news, information, and resources!
Temple University Tech support for online courses:
Website:
http://www.temple.edu/cs/helpdesk
Phone: (215) 204 - 8000
Email:
help@temple.edu
WIMBA 24/7 Tech
Support for Liveclassroom:
Phone: (866)
350 - 4978
Email: techsupport@wimba.com
VIRTUAL COFFEE
HOUR
Please join
us for a virtual coffee hour and give us your
feedback on your online course(s)!
The proposed dates
for the coffee hour will be Wednesdays
between 3:30 and 4:30 pm.
To join, simply visit
This Liveclassroom Link.
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