Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! Registration for the Spring 2025 academic term has begun and you may find yourself enrolling in online classes for the first time. I wanted to give tips I’ve learned for success in a virtual classroom as I’ve completed several online courses. Everyone has different learning styles and may therefore prefer or avoid the online structure however some courses are only offered virtually so it’s important to learn tips before you start. Universities are moving towards hybrid learning for a number of benefits, and students are learning how to lean into it.

Time Management 

When I took my first online course at Missouri State I was overwhelmed with the “free time” that I then had on my schedule. I began to fill it with outings with friends, organization meetings, more hours at work, spontaneous adventures, etc. It didn’t take long before I realized I was struggling without the accountability piece of meeting each week for attendance or working alongside my professor/classmates. I then had to work hard to create a schedule for myself that made appropriate time for the class. Before you begin an online course I recommend reviewing your schedule and building a designated class time into your calendar. This suggestion will help students avoid the mistake I made and start out the course with an action plan to find success in the class structure. A great benefit to an online course is the flexibility that it allows so use this to your advantage while setting boundaries to put academics first.  

Communication

Any course’s goal is to allow the student to take away new information, collaborate with classmates to share ideas, and ask your instructor questions to further understand concepts. How are you supposed to do that when you never see any classmates or when you do it’s pre-recorded or over a Zoom call? This is where the act of responsibility, organization, and accountability take place. At the start of your course take note of the course syllabus and write down your instructor’s office hours so that you’re aware and use them as needed. Communication with classmates looks different when done virtually but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Engage in discussion boards, send emails, and plan times to meet in person on/off campus to study together. 

Takeaways

Online learning is becoming more and more popular as universities discover the benefits it brings to staff and students. As you register for courses don’t let online courses intimidate you; instead, read over these tips and start the semester strong. As you finish out the semester and start a new one it is good to know when to ask for help. Consider visiting the Center for Academic Success and Transition office to meet with a Peer Mentor or a Success Coach. You can request to meet or stop by during drop-in hours. (Drop-in hours change every semester; see the Student Academic Assistance page for this semester’s hours.)

~Aubrey

(Bio: My name is Aubrey Hardy, and I am a senior studying special needs education. Fun fact: I’ve read over 15 books this year!)