While online courses are convenient and flexible, they also requires a combination
of skills to succeed academically. Students must be self-motivated, disciplined and have strong time-management skills:
1. Before the intersession begins, read over the syllabus carefully, and make note
of due dates for required daily/weekly assignments. Understand the expectations of the course before it begins, and make sure that you can effectively budget your time accordingly, balancing your studies with work, family and personal obligations. It
is especially important to avoid falling behind in required assignments in a short,
3-week term, so be sure develop a plan on how you'll stay on track for the duration
of the course.
2. Online students must feel comfortable expressing themselves in writing, as some classes only require written assignments (while others combine essays with
other forms of assessment like online quizzes).
3. Be proactive in asking and responding to questions from your instructor, as well as other students.
Unlike a large traditional classroom, there's no hiding in an online classroom environment, and staying engaged in the learning process (including asking for help when you need it!) is especially
important.
4. Online learning does not mean you'll be on your own, working independently. Many
online courses require group projects, interactive discussion boards, and instant
chat. Building relationships with your peers (even in an online environment) can help you build a network of support and be more
successful in your studies.
5. Online students must be comfortable with their computers, and have access to a
reliable high-speed internet connection. They must have knowledge of word processing software, web browsing and e-mail, know
how to download and install a program from the web, and in some courses, know how
to upload items from the PC to the web or have other technical expertise. Course descriptions
will note if students are required to have a higher level of computer ability.
6. Review your syllabus to see which learning platform(s) your course will use, and test your connections to them before the intersession begins. If enrolling in a fully online course while
in another nation, determining your access to all course materials in advance is especially
important.
7. Make sure you have access to a good study environment, free from distractions like television and video games.
8. Focus on your course work. It is easy to get distracted while working in an online
environment, and tempting to browse unrelated websites and social media platforms.
While it's important to take breaks from time-to-time, be wary of online distractions that obstruct productive learning.
9. Keep your behavior professional, and treat your instructor and peers with respect. Even in an online environment, students are still expected to abide by Stony Brook's
code of conduct, and bullying, intimidating, or threatening others will not be permitted.
10. Some courses may require in-person examinations at Stony Brook University or an
off-site facility. Be sure to read over the notes on your course in the SOLAR System
at the time of registration.
