Online education has become more prevalent over the past ten years, and that can be attributed to many different factors. Flexible scheduling as well as learning at the students own pace allow distant learners to further their education while working to support themselves.

According to Pew Research Internet Project, “39 percent of all adults who have taken a class online say the format’s educational value is equal to that of a course taken in a classroom.” Research also concludes that “50 percent [of instructors] predict that 10 years from now most of their students will take classes online.”

The question then becomes, “How does one remain successful within this distant learning environment?”

As a distant learner, here are five advice tips for the online learning individual.

5. Read the syllabus

This tip can be beneficial for students in classroom settings as well, but for distant learning, it is imperative because reading the syllabus thoroughly will give students all the information they need as well as the instructor’s expects.

Syllabi are usually available to print off, so print a tangible copy to save throughout your semester for reference of course due dates, contact information and course requirements to keep yourself on the same track as the instructor.

4. Keep a second log of course submission dates

Know when your teacher usually wants assignments turned in. Most instructors are set on specific days of the week, so even if the student does not have his or her syllabus handy, he or she can refer to prior knowledge of “Hey, this instructor usually has discussions due Mondays at noon.” Placing this information in a phone calendar to alert every Monday or even writing it in your planner allows you a heads up that an assignment could possibly be due soon.

3. Mark major assignments early

Online coursework usually has one or two large projects that the instructor expects the student to complete in their spare time throughout the semester along with the weekly assignments. Keeping note of these assignments will keep you from getting behind, as these larger assignments are usually a large part of the students grade.
2. Complete Assignments Early, if possible

The online education environment is built for the traditional as well as the non- traditional student. Keeping this in mind, students will rely on computer as well as Internet access for all coursework. If possible, find time to start assignments early to avoid systems being down or other technical problems. Most instructors allow up to a weeks early submission.

1. Communicate with your instructor

Communication is key for the online student. Regular correspondence with the instructor and even other peers within the online community allow the student to stay current with the needs of the class. Knowing the instructor’s best contact information helps you find a solution when a problem occurs.