A lot of first-time online students have a bit of anxiety and nervousness surrounding their first online classroom experience.  I wanted to compile some do’s and don’ts for those of you who may be new to this!

I did a bit of crowdsourcing for this post… thanks to the awesome folks from the AMU Facebook page for their awesome insight!

Without keeping you waiting any longer, here’s my top 10 list of online classroom fails (as shared with me by real, live online students!):

1. Cursing or ranting in a discussion post.
2. Improper use of grammar.
3. Failure to use spell check.
4. THE USE OF ALL CAPS.
5. Not citing your work, “borrowing” from classmates’ posts.
6. Failing to proof-read your post before submitting.
7. Attacking classmates and/or their opinions or beliefs.
8. Improperly using the copy/paste function from Word (resulting in a bunch of code mumbo jumbo before your actual post).
9. Scrutinizing classmates’ work instead of constructively contributing to discussion.
10. Being boisterous and presumptuous.

Want to read more? Check out the thread here!

By N. Cooper

Nothing says, I don’t care to write the very best, than a term paper, presentation, or resume that’s riddled with typos and grammatical errors. Look, typos happen. If only we had our own staff of editors and communication experts. Instead, we have spellcheck. So, until that happens, use these proofreading tips to elevate your game.

Avoid the Texting Effect

In a world where Tweets and texts emphasize convenience and abbreviations that would make Shakespeare blush, it’s important that you leave enough time to think about your subject material before writing discussion board posts and class papers. Remember, you’re communicating with professors and classmates, not your best friend. In short, slow down and give yourself the time to clearly articulate your thoughts. Don’t rush.

Use the Grammar Buddy System

Let’s assume you’ve spent a dozen hours researching and writing a paper on a complex topic. Sometimes you can get “too close” to the subject material to the point it’s mentally exhausting. This is where errors creep in and can ruin the quality of your work. One of the first things you should do is find a learning partner with opinions and editing abilities you can trust. Make a pact with your buddy that once you complete a draft, that he or she will read it with an eye for grammar and messaging. In return, you will provide the same free service to your grammar buddy. You’ll be surprised how well this works not only in spotting errors, but also in getting feedback that can actually improve your work.

Read it Backwards

A screenwriter with an Oscar on his mantel once mentioned this little editing trick. Take each page of your document and start at the end. Let your eyes skip backwards (right to left) across each line of the page and up to the beginning. It takes a little getting used to, because you’re not reading for messaging. You might be surprised how quickly your eyes jump to a typo, homonym or grammatical error.

Print It

There’s only so much artificial lighting from a computer monitor that your eyes can take before your mind turns to mush. Sometimes it is best to print off your work, get comfortable and edit on paper. Plus, you can easily write notes, which you can come back to later. Just don’t forget to recycle your used paper.

These tips are simple, effective, and they will save you time. More importantly, good proofreading skills can result in better grades and will translate into even more success when you’re communicating in the workplace.

By J. Thompson
Online Learning Tips Staff

You wouldn’t enroll in a class at the local college and attend without ever speaking to or getting to know a soul, now would you?

Just because it’s easier to slink into the corner of your classroom discussion when you go to school online, it doesn’t mean that it’s okay to go through your online education without getting to know your peers.

Your peers can prove to be valuable resources during your studies, as well as post-graduation.  Building a network with the folks that share classes with you; or even those that share similar interests, can help you with school assignments, job placement/coaching, and more.

[Find your peers on Facebook]

Don’t take the easy road, branch out and get to know the people you go to school with, you won’t regret it!

Don’t just slink away into the back room and come out, red-eyed and silent, after a few hours of studying. Share bits and pieces of what you’re learning with your friends and family. If you discover something interesting, bring it up at the dinner table or discuss it while driving your kids to school. Let your spouse or friends tag along on field trips to the art museum or city counsel. Chances are they’ll enjoy being involved in this part of your life and you’ll appreciate the chance to share it!

(source: About.com)

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