If you’re an online student then you already know how convenient online classes can be. It’s easy to plan your work and family life around them, but what about personal time?
I booked a week-long vacation in October that would take me away from a computer so when I signed up for a class that would overlap with my trip, I had to make a plan. Here are some tips for how to handle a known absence from your class:
Talk to your professor
My vacation would fall during Weeks 6 and 7 of my class so at the beginning of Week 2, I reached out to my professor. I let her know which dates I would be gone and asked how she preferred that I handle the assignments during that time. Your situation will vary based on the class and professor but in my own case, my professor appreciated that I let her know so far in advance.
Work ahead
Every class is different but if you are able to work ahead then you may not miss any assignments while you’re out of town. I had very little catching up to do thanks to completing my forum post and a problem set before I left.
Send a reminder
Even though I already let my professor know about my trip, I sent a reminder message a few days before I left. In that message, I also let her know which assignments I was able to complete in advance and which ones would be submitted when I returned.
Enjoy your trip
If you’ve done all you can in advance then you have nothing to worry about. Enjoy the break you’re getting!
Buckle down when you get back
It’s never easy getting back to the real world after a trip but everyone has to do it. Once you’re mentally prepared, crack open your computer and pick up where you left off. Start by letting your professor know that you’re back in town and stick to a schedule of submitting your late assignments. Don’t forget to say ‘thank you’ for working with your situation!
How do you handle a vacation or work trip that falls during one of your classes?
By Madeline Kronfeld
Online Learning Tips, Special Contributor
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