Becoming a
Successful
Online Participant
Learning at a distance or taking a WWW course may be a new experience for you. Although there are many similarities to face-to-face instruction, there are many differences as well. Some of these similarities and differences may seem like advantages and some like disadvantages to you. We hope that the following suggestions will help you adapt to the distance learning environment, maximize its strengths for your learning, and help you find ways to become a successful online participant. The topics covered in this section include:
Preparing for Success
Define Time and Space. It helps to establish a definite time and place for progressing through your lessons. This not only makes your work on the computer more pleasant, it helps your mind become more focused.
Focus on Lesson Goals. Each lesson is designed to give you a preview of what is coming and lets you know what you should focus on. Read the goals for the lesson carefully because they correspond to the main points within the lesson’s instruction.
Be Aware of Computing Habits. At home, you may use the computer for games or while you are doing something else -- eating, talking on the telephone, etc. You may pay attention only to the portions of the computer program in which you have great interest. Participating in an online course is not like that. You will want to stay focused on the content, ask questions, share ideas, and participate fully in the learning activities presented.
Using Critical Thinking Skills When Evaluating WWW Sources
The Internet and WWW are wonderful educational tools for students and faculty. However, not all sites are valuable for academic purposes, and not all sites are of high quality. Critical thinking and evaluation skills become important as you explore different sites. It’s important to ask questions like -- Is it accurate? current? meaningful? researched? supported by people knowledgeable in the field? thorough? The following links present a variety of evaluation criteria for students:
Seeking Help When You Need It
Be Assertive. If you have a question or comment, you must be willing to send a note to the the course development team or other participant via WebBoard. One of the best things about this type of group communication is that other participants are willing to help answer questions. Initially some people feel that they are taking a big risk by showing that they do not understand. Remember that the development team or other participants cannot see you to realize that you are confused, interested in sharing an idea, or having difficulty with the technology.
Use Online Help Features. If you need help with using your email software, check the program's Help feature. Sometimes a Net search will help you discover solutions to technology problems. If you are exploring the Internet, many sites have a link to "Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQs).
Share Your Thoughts and Opinions. Let the course development team know how you feel about the effectiveness of participating in a distance education environment like the Internet. Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to complete evaluation forms. Your input will help them plan for future distance course delivery.