Common Pit Falls of Online Learners

liberty-distance-learning-good-one.gifNot many people know that not only do I over see the operations of the distance learning process here at Liberty University, but I also over see one online class as a an adjunct professor.  Having the privilege of being able to see the entire process from the admission stage through the maturing process of students moving toward graduation, I believe I have a keen sense and well rounded view of student strengths and weaknesses in this online world. 

Below I have bullet pointed out some of the most common mistakes I see when a student is taking their class, that causes them to not be successful.

1. Not making weekly progress – most online university courses are set up so a student has to make weekly progress. Some schools require a student login “x” amount of times per week for class attendance. Weekly assignments have to be completed and submitted to show constant progress. This is especially important for students using federal financial aid. Not making weekly progress can jeopardize your student aid and your grade. Not completing course could put you on financial aid suspension for future terms.

2. Not participating in group work – again, most classes involve a group project where you are teamed up with 3-4 individuals for a group paper, project, etc. The groups are designed to create a sense of community and involvement. In addition, these groups are also designed to simulate real life. In real life we all have to work with people in different capacities, these groups have the same challenges of communication, procrastination and different work ethics by students that people face in the real world. In the real world, businesses do not stop because one member did not pull their weight, they still have to meet deadlines and push forward.

3. Not having a routine – taking online classes requires a student to very discipline in carving out time to study and complete the requirements. Traditional classroom setting requires 3 hours of class time per week and 8-10 hours of study time outside of the class. Online learning success requires that as a student you have to carve out a set routine of time to login and complete the course. I recommend getting on a schedule just like a traditional class where a certain time each day is “classroom” time on your computer.Take your education seriously, and be determined to finish what you started. It is very detrimental to start something and not finish or withdraws from the course. It makes your academic records look bad and can effect your federal funding.

January 31, 2008 · Filed Under Distance Learning, Misc

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