Communication is important for exchanging ideas, expressing thoughts, keeping up-to-date and asking for assistance. Communication will be happening online in discussions, over email and used for your submitted work.
To be successful, it is important to communicate regularly! Below is a list of resources you should utilize during your studies:
While you are communicating for distance learning, please make sure that you are following the proper “netiquette” with fellow instructors and students.
Netiquette is short for “Network Etiquette”. It outlines the rules for interacting with others online in a considerate and respectful way.
Strategies can be used to organize your learning to accomplish a course effectively and efficiently.
Start the course by reading and clearly following your teacher’s instructions. There will also be a course syllabus to assist you with important deadlines, a brief introduction to course content, textbooks (if applicable) and a marking breakdown.
There will be weekly assignments and assigned readings for each module. Pay close attention to the Learning Objectives of each module; they will help you identify key ideas and important content. These concepts also frequently show up in quizzes and exams. It is also important to complete all assignments, homework and readings in your current module before moving on to another.
Make sure to check your grades regularly and ask your instructor for clarification if necessary.
To have access to your online courses, you should make sure the following learning software is working properly:
Link to MyAC here: https://myac.alexandercollege.ca/
Your login information would be provided in your acceptance package email.
(Your student ID number and a temporary password)
Email the Registrar’s Office: firstname.lastname@example.org
Zoom Room links will be given by the instructor for office hours and exams.
Download Zoom here: https://zoom.us/download
Email Zoom Support: email@example.com
It is also required to have the following technology for your studies:
In order to be successful in taking online courses, you will need to be highly organized, committed and self-directed.
Below are five ways in which you can set yourself up for success:
To be an effective learner, you must make your study time a priority. Be sure to create a study plan that is effective for your needs. This could mean studying for 3 hours blocks or 45 minute intervals. Every student studies differently. Take note of what works best for you and apply them to your studies.
Just remember, it is recommended to reserve 3 hours for course work and 6 hours for study, assigned readings and homework per class (roughly 9 hours a week).
To make sure you aren’t submitting an assignment late, mark all important due dates on a calendar. You can also set specific start dates to work on assignments (e.g. two weeks prior to the due date).
Before you begin your course, set an intention in your mind for the grade you would like to achieve and then begin working your way towards it. Identify what you need to accomplish to get there.
It is easy with technology to get side-tracked. Try to avoid excessive social media, Netflix episodes or online shopping in your designated study times. A helpful tip is to do your least favourite task first and your most favourite task last. That way you always have something to look forward to.
By creating an incentive, you will be positively reinforcing the work you have done. This will help you establish a routine and make studying more fun. You can choose a monetary, activity or time-based reward. Be creative, but ensure the reward matches the work you’ve put in.