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Online Learning Tips

Taking courses online is different than face-to-face. These tips can help you have a successful experience learning whether online or in person.

Organization Tips

Being organized is an important skill to keep you on track.

  • Use a planner or calendar

    There's a lot to remember and keep track of when taking classes. Write down important things you need to accomplish and when they are due. This will give you some structure and help you plan when to get stuff done.

    You can also use a planner or calendar to set a schedule. Figure out when your classes are and when you'll study and do homework. Once you set your schedule, stick to it.

  • Pay attention to your course syllabus

    Check it frequently so you don't miss important due dates and assignments.

  • Make lists

    Make a to-do list of everything you need to get done. Once complete, cross it off. This will give an awesome feeling of accomplishment.

    You should also keep a list of all the important links you need or create a shortcut for them on your device.

  • Avoid multitasking

    We all think we're good at multitasking. Truth is, we're not. Focus on one thing at a time. This will help with feelings of being overwhelmed.

Communication Tips

  • Check your Illinois State email

    Do this multiple times a day so you don't miss important information. Email is one of the main ways we communicate at Illinois State.

  • Stay in touch with your instructors

    You and your instructor will work out the best ways to communicate. This might be via email, ReggieNet, or some other form. Check for new messages frequently and respond if needed.

  • Log in to My.IllinoisState.edu

    Watch for announcements and updates from the University at My.IllinoisState.edu.

Class Tips

Your class schedule might look a little different this semester. Whether you're online or in the classroom, make the most of it.

  • Prepare

    You can't wait until the last minute and expect good results. Don't put off work and try to "cram" at the last minute.

    Get what you need ahead of time, including materials, books, supplies, technology, WiFi, links, etc.

    Give yourself plenty of time to do any homework, reading, or other prep work before class starts.

  • Use Study Spaces

    Dedicated rooms around campus have been setup to provide a safe place to study.

    • CVA: 133
    • DEG: 039, 305
    • FEL: 158, 162
    • FSA: 231
    • SCH: 115, 117, 207, 211
    • SFHB: 133
    • STV: 120, 126, 234, 311, 352
    • TUR: 208

  • Focus

    Distractions are everywhere. Do what you can to stay focused.

    • Put your phone and other technology you don't need away.
    • Have a clean, quiet space for studying and attending online classes.
    • If you're online, close any apps and tabs you don't need.

  • Take notes

    Taking notes helps you focus and retain information.

    Write down questions you have and follow up with the right people to get answers.

  • Make the most of video lectures

    If your class is online, watch the recording at normal speed.

  • Be on time

    And maybe a little early if possible so you're prepared and ready to go.

Accountability Tips

There are a lot of things you are responsible for in college. You can do it. If you need help, just ask. These tips will help you accomplish goals and get stuff done.

  • Keep your routine

    Go to class, do your work, study, and turn in assignments on time.

  • Seek help

    Don’t wait! Seek out assistance right away if you need it.

  • Know the Code of Student Conduct

    Our Code of Student Conduct outlines what's expected of you as a student. Basically, we want you to be responsible, safe, respectful, and kind.

  • Stay healthy

    To be successful, you need to take care of yourself. Balance your personal/social life and your academic life.

    Take breaks from studying when you need to. We suggest studying for 25 to 50 minutes at a time. Once that time is up, reward yourself with a five to ten-minute break.

    Stay healthy – physically and mentally. Our Redbirds Keep Thriving page offers great tips on this.

Online Class Etiquette Tips

Be courteous when taking classes online.

If your professor is holding class online using Zoom, you may be in for a new experience. But online meetings are not new. Here's what the experts have to say about online meeting etiquette.

  • Leave the keyboard alone

    Lots of typing may distract you and the others in the meeting. Consider taking notes by hand. You may actually learn better (and you can always type up your notes later).

  • Dress appropriately

    Pajamas are super comfortable but they can be distracting. Put on normal clothes so you can focus and get in the right frame of mind.

  • Have a quiet, clean space

    Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid a messy or noisy environment.

  • Check your microphone

    Mute your microphone when you're not talking. And when it's time to participate, don't be afraid to speak loudly and clearly. Everyone else will appreciate it!

  • No food, please

    Chowing down in the middle of a face-to-face class can be a little awkward. Doing so when you're close-up on camera, with a microphone near you, is even more so.

  • Stay seated. Be present

    You'll feel the itch to check your phone or another browser tab. Be strong. Even if others can't see you, online meetings require focus.

2020-09-28T14:36:29.877-05:00 2020