Keys for Successful Online Learning

For each credit hour, you’ll need at least one hour to review the course material and two hours for studying and homework. For a three-credit class, that means you’ll need to block off at least nine hours each week in your schedule. Once that baseline is set, look at the syllabus for each class and identify when there will be tests and major assignments due. Students are expected to spend three hours engaged with the course content in iCollege (and/or other assigned course materials). Add extra time in your schedule to prepare for those.

Set up automated iCollege text and email notifications to help stay up-to-date, plan effectively, and meet deadlines.

After you estimate how much time it’ll take to succeed, get out your calendar and set consistent times that you’ll devote to your online coursework. It might help to set reminders on your phone, too. Once your times are set, stick to them like it’s your job. Make arrangements so that your other obligations won’t pull you away from your coursework, and let people know that you’re busy during those times. When you miss a session, make up that time as soon as possible. Procrastination is the fastest route to failure. Plan ahead and commit to success. Learn good study habits.

If you don’t understand something — course content, assignment expectations, where to go for help — you name it — ask your professor right away. Perimeter College professors come to work each day with the sole purpose of helping you succeed. It is never an imposition to ask for help.

Being a part of Georgia State University means that you have access to a huge number of people outside of the classroom whose job it is to help you succeed. Get to know folks in the Learning and Tutoring Center, advisement office, library, career services, technology help desk, counseling office, financial aid office, and more!

Higher education is incredibly rewarding but it’s not easy. When times get tough, remember what motivated you to enroll. What dream are you pursuing? Is it a better job? Is it a better life for you and your family? Is Perimeter College a first step toward a bachelor’s degree and beyond? Whatever it is, keeping your eye on the big picture will help keep short-term challenges in perspective. You can achieve your dreams. We’re here to help.

No surprises here. You need to have the right technology to participate in online courses. Be sure that you meet the Technology Requirements before you start your online course.