The Electronic Classroom
Communication For Adult Students In the Distance Learning Classroom
For many returning students, becoming comfortable with the long-distance academic relationship is an entirely new skill!
Online learning can be a new arena for many adult students. Continuing education in a distance learning environment is a unique experience when it comes to communication!
Although computer skills are becoming second nature now to most people, the ability to forge relationships through the long distance classroom is still an individual skill that requires some effort and an investment in time. For anyone who is considering or already involved in a distance learning environment, it can be a learning experience along the way. Class discussions, partner critiques, responses to particular readings are all done via the internet. If you haven't experienced this before, it may cause you a bit of concern at first. The best solution is to just jump right in! Just as with a traditional college class, you are together with other students at the same level and everyone is usually feeling the same way.
Here's a few tips to help with your online learning experience:
- Take advantage of the introductory period! Introduce yourself, do your best to be professional but friendly toward your classmates.
- Be aware of how your comments appear when you re-read them online.
- Anything written in all capitals is considered shouting and extremely rude, not just in e-mail but in the class discussion forums as well.
- Always address your professor as Professor, Dr., or however they direct you. If they don't offer it right away, ask them how they prefer to be addressed. Never use their first name unless they ask you to.
- Avoid using abbreviations (i.e., BTW for "by the way") or the little "smilies", happy faces, etc. when in a class discussion. It's inappropriate in an academic setting.
(Remember to check your computer capability before starting your class!)
Check here for a few more helpful tips for being successful in an electronic classroom. Taking online classes can be a highly rewarding experience, and quality universities like Ellis College and Walden University are happy to give you a taste of what it's like.
Writing is a key component for success in an online setting! You don't have to love it or be a natural at it - it's a skill that is learned over time. Take a moment and review your essay writing skills.
Let me know if you have questions or comments!
