Online learning transfers much of the responsibility of learning to the student. That is, students will need self-motivation, time-management, and strong communication skills in order to be successful.
Consider these skills when recruiting and enrolling students:
- Time-management skills are necessary to handle the responsibility of self-pacing.
- Self-motivation skills are required to remain on track and engaged without constant guidance from a teacher.
- Self-reflection skills enable students to understand why they are falling behind. (Am I not spending enough time on the content, or do I not understand what is being taught?)
- Students must have the ability and willingness to learn independently since students may have little occasion to interact with peers.
- Strong reading and writing skills are needed to comprehend content, synthesize information, follow directions, and more.
- Students must recognize learning strategies that support success (note taking, self-questioning, etc.).
- Effective communication skills are necessary for communicating with teachers to ask questions, receive support, and stay on pace.
- Basic technical skills are required to navigate the course, web links, and additional content and learning tools.
Additionally, mentors may wish to post or share these tips for student success:
- Watch the Orientation Video (https://sislogin.edgenuity.com)
- Maintain a positive, motivating learning environment.
- Aim for 5-8 hours of studying per course, per week.
- Take notes. Review your notes before each assessment.
- Did you know MANY teachers allow you to use notes on tests?
- Communicate with your virtual teacher on an ongoing basis. (Call or Email)
- Use the Concept Coaches often. (this is a free service)
- Call, email, chat
- Course content questions, note taking skills, motivation skills, learning how to study for assessments and more
- Attend virtual study halls, office hours, and review sessions with your online teachers.
- Take ownership of your learning.
- Recognize the difference between falling behind because you aren’t putting in the effort and not understanding a concept.
- Overall grade is what you have turned in (understanding the material)
- Actual grade is taking in to account if you are behind in the course – if this is lower you will want to put in some more time in class.
- Ask for help whenever you need it.
- Celebrate your accomplishments.