Study Skills

TIPS FOR SUCCEEDING WITH DISTRIBUTED EDUCATION

1. Attend the first TV class campus meeting to meet the instructor, understand the course goals and requirements, and review the course syllabus. Access the department web page for details about the online class and what is expected of you as an online student.
2. Create an ideal study environment. Schedule study time when you are in a distraction-free environment. Maintain a weekly schedule - be consistent with your schedule.
3. Read the study materials related to assignments as presented by the instructor. Take notes and highlight important information.
4. Watch the TV programs weekly. If you have a VCR, record the programs to review them or make an appointment at the college Learning Center to view the programs. Log in to your online server daily to keep up with new messages from the instructor and classmates.
5. Complete the assignments in the telecourse study guide and textbook after viewing each program. For online classes, be aware of due dates and don't wait until the last hour to send your reports by email.
6. Do NOT be afraid to ask questions. Formulate a list of questions during your study time to present to the instructor at the TV class campus meetings. Post items of concern to your online class or call the instructor during their scheduled office hour.
7. Form a support group with other members of the TV class to review and discuss the content of the course. Online classes have a "discussion" area for student to student communications.
8. Identify the time of day that you are most comfortable doing school work and create a weekly schedule. Prepare uninterrupted blocks of time. Confirm this schedule with our family and friends.

Proper Web Etiquettes

1. Do NOT send or post materials to anyone in the class that you would not be comfortable saying to that person. This includes use of inappropriate words, jokes, and images.
2. ALWAYS proof-read materials that will be posted or sent for errors.
3. Do not use the communication tools for personal matter. For example, do not use for promoting social causes, selling materials, etc.
4. Provide instructors and educators time to respond to postings (24-48 hours).
5. Do not communicate just to communicate. Any communication must advance the discussion. Posting "I Agree" to another student's comment does not add to the discussion.
6. Think before you speak/ write.
7. Be patient in live or synchronous discussions forum. Typing and/ or speaking abilities differ among students.
8. Try not to be the last person to contribute to a project/ assignment. Instructors are able to determine who contributed most and least to a project/ assignment.