Online Classes: How to Engage In Learning  

 

Online classes are not as easy as they sound or look.  Self-discipline and self-motivation are two keys to success in order to stay "engaged" in learning in an online class.  You have to hold yourself accountable and show commitment. Some best practices to engage in online classes include the following:

 

   1.  Make a plan.

 I got a daily planner and filled in the due dates for all forums, blogs, assignments, quizzes, and exams.  In between each due date, I have a set schedule for time I have set aside specifically to attend classes, whether it be to research, or read material and watch videos provided by the instructor, or to practice what I have already learned, such as in my Algebra class. I check off what I have completed and hold myself accountable for my attendance. 

 

  2.  Take advantage of all resources. 

  Take every opportunity you can to utilize all resources provided to you.  Reading material, videos, extra practice work, forums, and any articles that may be provided by your instructor can only benefit you. 

 

  3.  Take lots of notes!

                     

   4.  Ask questions and participate.

  There is no such thing as a stupid question.  Forums are for your benefit.  Don't be afraid to speak up, but be respectful of others. 

 

   5.  Remove all distractions.

  I turn off my cell phone and all social networking when doing school work.  Anytime I am logged into Moodle or doing research or homework, I consider that class time and treat it as such.

 

  6.  And, of course, always be prepared.  

     You wouldn't step into a classroom without paper and a pencil, would you?  You would most definitely remember your textbook, right?  Make sure that you have always have the tools needed to complete your classes.  And if you have any technical issues, make sure that you have the numbers on hand to call for assistance.

                    

            

              Welcome to my world!  My name is Amanda, and I currently reside in Chaffee, Missouri,
with my nine year old daughter, Zoe Rhea.  We are actually in the process of looking for a place in
Jackson, Missouri, where I am originally from, so that we can be closer to family.  I started college
last year, and my major is Athletic Training and Sports Medicine. 
           I believe that going through a divorce and finding that you have to start over and create a
whole new world for yourself is a challenge.  Most of my closest friends and family would say that I
overcame that challenge pretty well, however, I don't know if I overcame it, but I do believe that it
helped me to realize my true potential.  My husband left me and it was time to "put on my big girl
panties", according to my family and friends.  So the day after he left, I did something I had always
wanted to do, and he always told me I couldn't.  I enrolled in college.  On July 9, 2012, the world
that my daughter and I had come to know and love walked out, and the next day, July 10, 2012, I
took her to campus with me, and started the process of getting into college.  It was the first step to
creating a whole new better world for us and it was one of the best decisions I had ever made.  And
as far as I can tell,  it was the best example that I have ever set for my daughter.
                 I actually do love to write and learn!  While this class may be required for me, I was very
excited to take it.  Any chance to learn, to research, and to write, is a great opportunity.  My goal for
this class is to improve my writing skills, especially skills that I will utilize during my time at
SEMO.