Tips and Suggestions:

Tips and suggestions for being a successful learner in an online course include:

Planning

• In addition to becoming familiar with the online learning environment, pay attention to the physical learning environment. Try to arrange everything ergonomically in your learning space.
• Pay close attention to the due dates of the assignments, and check the syllabus regularly in case the instructor makes changes.
• Plan ahead, and plan well. Do not put off quizzes or assignments until the last minute because there is a chance that Canvas might be down when you need it the most!

Communicating

• Check your e-mail regularly, but be patient while waiting for responses.
• Always check the file size when you try to upload a file to share. The bigger the file size, the more difficult it may be to upload and download.
• Communicate with your instructor and classmates by e-mail, Discussions, Instant Messenger, or phone.
• Use courtesy in online communication, and deal with conflict with respect.

Engaging

• Evaluate your own progress by the course objectives and assignments, and regulate your own study pace based on this evaluation. Talk to your instructor if you encounter a problem.
• Participation is important to your learning experience in an online learning environment, so be confident in making contributions. Don't be afraid of making mistakes!
• Identify a way of taking notes you would prefer: use Word, online journal/web logging, note-taking software, bookmarking the websites important to you, or any method that works well for you.
• Be aware of the resources for help available: your instructor, the World Campus HelpDesk, World Campus Student Services, Canvas Help, or a librarian.

Improving Writing Style

• Purdue Online Writing Lab is a good, quick resource for formatting APA style.
• The PSU Library also has Citation and Writing Guides.
• APA Style book: American Psychological Association (2010). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th ed. Washington, DC: APA.