Online classes can be both a benefit and a challenge. The convenience is wonderful, but the amount of work given in such a condensed time frame, can be overwhelming.

It is very important to stay organized and always keep track of what assignments are due when. Each instructor is different and has different requirements, and you cannot go in to one class expecting it to be the same as the last. This definitely holds true when reviewing the instructor syllabus.

Each instructor has a specific syllabus format to follow, but they all have different individual requirements about due dates, participation, and formatting of assignments. Remember to read the syllabus in full and do not assume anything.

it is also important to keep in mind that although you don't have to report to a real classroom every day, there are participation and attendance requirements. It's not a complete leisure environment. If you do not meet participation and attendance requirements at my school, you will have points deducted each week.

Keep track of your participation and try to do as much as possible early in the week. Make sure you are posting to the classroom more than required, so that if something comes up during the week that is unexpected and you can't participate on a certain day or days, you've already met the requirements early on.

These are all based on classes at The University of Phoenix and may not specifically apply to each individual school, but the basic concepts should be the same.

Learn more about this author, Debbie N.
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