Three Secrets to Success for Distance Education Courses

Distance education is becoming an increasingly popular way for students to complete their college degrees. Classes can be completed anywhere and anytime. Many students underestimate the amount of time and focus that successfully completing a distance education course can require. Instructors for these courses comment on a number of mistakes they see students repeat semester after semester. Consider these three secrets to success to avoid online education pitfalls and earn an A:

1) Communicate with the instructor regularly. Manners matter!

Instructors can only get to know their distance education students via name and the impression students make through online communication. Consider a personal introduction to your instructor. Keep it brief and always use common courtesies in every e-mail or message. Use your instructor’s proper title and add a friendly closing with your signature.

2) Your phone as a study buddy.

Online students sometimes find it difficult to turn in assignments by their due dates. Distance education courses might not have regular class meetings that typically include reminders about upcoming assignments. Accountability to complete work is entirely on the student. Harness the power of technology to increase your odds for success. Program alarms into your phone to remind you to check on your course, complete assignments, and respond to discussion board posts.

3) Set your own class time.

Too often, students misinterpret the “anytime” benefit of distance education course work for “no time”. Today’s student often works, may have a family, and balances a number of other responsibilities in addition to school. Online courses require consistent focus and dedication of time. Schedule regular days and times to complete your assignments and study for distance education classes. Feel free to enjoy the benefits of a 10pm class if you work best at night.

These secrets won’t guarantee success in distance education, but they’re student tested and instructor approved. At the start of a new semester, there’s no better time to get off on the right foot with your distance education courses.