How to Be a
Good Online Learner

What are the benefits of online learning?

Online learning offers many benefits to you as a learner.

Flexible Scheduling

You participate in the instruction at times that are convenient for you.  There is no set time to be in class.  You can attend class in the morning before going to work, during your lunch hour, after you have put the kids to bed, or any other time during your day.  The point is that it's a time that you have selected.

More Time Spent on Learning

Rather than spending your learning time commuting to and from campus, you spend all of your learning time on learning!

Learn What You Need to Know

Rather than listening to a lecture that may cover information with which you are already familiar, online learning allows you to skim material that you already know and focus on the material you need to know.

Increased Peer Interaction

Due to the student-centered approach to online learning, you will interact more with your peers.  Gone are the days of listening to a professor lecture.  You and your peers are actively engaged in your own learning experience.

Virtual Office Hours

Did you ever find yourself rushing to class early so that you could have a few minutes to talk to your professor?  Did you ever find yourself waiting outside his office and he didn't show?  With online learning, you contact your facilitators when it's convenient for you.

Increased Technology Skills

In this ever more digital world, the ability to integrate technology into your work is vital.  Through online learning, not only do you increase your knowledge base of the content of the course, but you increase your knowledge of technology.

High Quality Dialogue

Due to the very nature of online learning, you are given the time to carefully reflect before responding.  You and your classmates are able to more clearly and thoroughly express your thoughts.  This leads to higher quality of dialogue where everyone learns more.

Level Playing Field

In the online format, the focus is solely on the content and the learning process.  No need to worry about appearance, age, disability, or race.  So go ahead, attend class in your pajamas -- no one will know!

Content Availability

The content of the course is available to you at any time.  No need to worry about whether or not you took reliable notes.  It's all there 24/7.

Collaboration

In this increasingly global world, collaboration is a key skill.  In the online community, you may find yourself learning with people from anywhere.  You have the ability to create a larger network of associates.  Being able to communicate and collaborate at a distance will be valuable and will help to broaden your horizons.