Welcome to the online world! If you are reading this article, it means that you are now one of us: the self motivated adult learner whose aspiration to succeed has made you take the plunge. You have decided that online education is worth a try because there was just no way could you actually make the time to go back physically to school. While you have mustered the guts to tread into the unknown realm of the online classroom, you sure could use a few tips that would help you leave your footprint (or fingerprint if you prefer) there.

1) BE A REGULAR

Log in often. It is sometime tough to break the habit of the face to face classroom: one does not go to class every single day, so why should you be expected to go to the online classroom more often than you absolutely should? Well the reason is simple: you can do so because you can go in whenever you like. They call it asynchronocity. Take advantage of this feature, and stay on top of things by logging on often. At your time and convenience, yes, but try to make it everyday or every other day if you can. Staying online longer and taking time to look around carefully at the links and comments, lectures and discussions will prove to be an invaluable asset. And yes announce your presence by leaving a comment of your own whenever you can

2) ASK QUESTIONS

Almost every online class has a Q & A feature, where you can fire away. Use it to your heart's content. Do not be afraid or shy to ask: you will be amazed at how many other students had the same problem as you did. Your questions could be about the course, the grading procedure, the assignment guidelines or whatever. While your teacher will be appreciative or at least happy to respond, your peers will love you for it. Some times they may even email you their thanks.

3) KNOW THE LIMITS
Never forget that the online classroom depends on technology, and technology often goes wrong. Submit your assignments early; you never know when your computer or connection might play truant. And yes, do not wait till the last minute to write your exams, you might find yourself unceremoniously cut off because time was up or because too many students logged in at the same time

These simple strate'gems' could aid you in getting that A that you always wanted . At the very least, they could make your online learning experience enjoyable and meaningful. Make these tips your own, and they will work their magic for you. Like they did for me.

Learn more about this author, Sarbani Vengadasalam.
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