Communicating in Your Online Class
Email this articleYou're familiar with the traditional college classroom, and believe that interacting with your professor and colleagues is an important aspect of college learning. How can an online class provide a similar experience? Depending on how your online class is designed, you may be able to share real-time discussions with your instructor and classmates, or post questions and comments to a discussion board. Here are some tips for getting the online education experience that works for you.
Online Education Accommodates Multiple Learning Styles
Many people believe that online pursuits are solitary, but e-learners are interacting with people all over the country. Online education formats offer a variety of course structures that enable students to communicate with instructors and colleagues. It's a good idea to investigate potential programs carefully when shopping for an online class. Here are some typical options:
- Hybrid Class: This format requires some classroom attendance combined with online study. These courses can be a great way to try out online education. You'll have the support of a live instructor and classmates while becoming familiar with doing assignments and research online.
- Online Class with Specific Schedule: Instructors may schedule virtual discussions at particular times, just as a traditional course meets at a specific time. The success of this type of online class largely depends on the compatibility of your computer and schedule with the course platform and online discussion schedule.
- Online Class Discussion Boards: Many online courses provide a discussion board where students and instructors can post comments and questions. Generally, the instructor will establish guidelines for using the discussion board and establish a turnaround time for responses. Instructors will typically provide an e-mail address for contacting them with questions and concerns.
About the Author
Karen Lawson spent more than twenty years in the business world before returning to college. She used student financial aid programs while earning her MA degree in English at the University of Nevada, Reno.
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