Articles on Learning | Topics: learning, learn, study, studying
by Denise O'Donnell
When you think about taking an online course, you may not realize there are certain tools you will need to properly take any class via distance learning. It may seem as if you will need less than you would if you were taking a physical course. You may not need the expensive backpack, lunch pail, or things of that nature. But you will need a few more items that may even cost more in the long run. Take a look at these proper tools you need for online learning before you decide signing up for a class.
A Computer
One of the most needed things for online learning is your own personal computer. You probably will do better if you computer is less than five years old as well. Older computers tend to have a lot of problems and with distance learning, there is no room for any computer problems since your computer is where you do and turn in your work. You can always choose to use the library's computers, but you will likely find it annoying to spend so much time there. Plus, most libraries do close and if you need to study or write a paper into the night, there is no hope for that if you don't own your own computer.
If you don't have the cash to get your own computer now, think about leasing one or putting one in layaway at your local general merchandise store. You can often finance one so you make monthly payments as well. Otherwise, save up your money and refrain from taking online courses until you have a computer you can work with.
Internet Connection
In addition to a fast computer, every online student needs an Internet connection. Some courses will require your Internet connection to be faster than average, so be sure you check on that aspect of your distance learning courses. If you don't already have an Internet connection, there are several things you can do. You can opt for a cable Internet connection and call your local cable company for rates and information. You can also opt for a high-speed line instead and talk with your local phone company about getting one of these. You should know that many local companies will offer student discounts, so be sure to ask about any benefits you may qualify for.
Books
| Historical Quote |
No one over thirty-five is worth meeting who has not something to teach us,—something more than we could learn for ourselves, from a book.
| —Cyril Connolly (1903–1974) |
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Just like all other college students, you will likely need books for your online courses. The difference is that when you take physical classes, you are able to go to your local bookstore and pick up what you need. Online students are often taking classes that are taught through colleges hundreds of miles away from them. Therefore, ordering books online is about the only option most of the time. One thing to remember when ordering books online is that you should really shop around for the best deal. Many online college bookstores offer you the option of ordering used or new books, just like a typical college bookstore would. They also offer you different shipping options. You should try to order your books as early as possible so you don't have to pay the really high shipping costs.
Commitment
While everything discussed thus far pertains to things you purchase, there are a few other things you need to get through an online degree program successfully. You absolutely must have commitment in order to get through any online class. Online classes can easily be put on the back burner of your life, because there is no one sitting there reminding you to come to class and the sense of anonymity makes it even easier to slack without feeling bad about it. You should know that online courses are a privilege universities offer their students and you shouldn't take advantage of them. Set a schedule and follow it!
Maturity
With online courses, you may be tempted to "cheat". Mature students realize that the only people that get cheated when they cheat, are themselves. So, be sure you do all of your work yourself. Don't be tempted to pay someone to do the work for you. You may not realize how important it is now, but as you mature even more, you will see that you should always be honest with yourself and those around you in order to be the best person you can be.
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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "The Proper Tools Needed for Online Learning" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by SloanSemester.org. |
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