1. Procrastination
One reason many students choose online schooling is for the flexibility such programs offer. Students may work in their online classrooms or access necessary resources during the day, night or weekend. In spite of this flexible approach, online college programs are still rigorous in their time and dedication demands. Online students must manage their time efficiently, plan their course requirements in advance and plan their work/family responsibilities accordingly. If students cannot be self-motivated, a traditional classroom environment is a better fit.
2. Lack of Study Skills
Online students not only need to have focus and time management skills in place, but they also must have expertise in the area of study skills. Note taking, reading comprehension, strong writing skills and test preparation are essential in any school environment, but even more so in online learning. Online school students do not have the advantage of day-to-day interaction with their instructors, and therefore must have useful strategies to compensate. For example, instead of copying notes from a class discussion, online students will have to comprehend the material and take useful notes on their own.
3. Plagiarizing
Students earning a degree through an online program may feel disconnected to their professor or institution. They may not believe that their instructor has rigorous standards for excellence. Academic papers, study guides and journal articles are available on the internet, often for free and are intended as aids in a student’s development. Copying the articles or not providing adequate citation constitutes plagiarism. A proven case of plagiarism results in a failing grade, loss of reputation and often dismissal from a program. If a student has a question about what constitutes plagiarism, they should contact their instructor prior to submitting a project.
4. Losing focus
Students have specific reasons for deciding on a particular online school program. However, it is easy to lose focus on why the choice was made or how to achieve desired results. Online learning does provide exciting benefits, but, like most long-term projects, can prove frustrating with a lack of planning and direct contact with program staff. Regular conversations with an academic advisor to create and follow a concrete plan of action can alleviate these concerns and motivate a student to complete their plan.
5. Poor Communication Skills
Online students must have excellent communication skills in order to find success. They must be organized and structured in their approach, and give themselves time to communicate about a project long before it is due. Use of email, videoconferencing and phone are common communication tools and standard etiquette should be used. Respectful, informative and short emails to professors are appreciated, as well as phone calls during scheduled office hours. Instructors want to meet the needs of each student and welcome questions, drafts of papers and initial outlines. In addition, the ability to make oneself stand out and get to know professors is important in obtaining recommendations for employment or future academic pursuits.
6. Lack of Informational Literacy
Many resources exist beyond those provided by the institution. Online learning students must understand and utilize resources that exist online and in their communities. Local libraries, museums, online sites and community colleges are excellent resources for distance learning students. Understanding effective searches for these tools is equally important. Use of Google, Yahoo or Ask.com search engines in an efficient manner cuts research time and effort considerably. Many libraries or online schools provide informational literacy courses to assist students further.
7. Lack of Adequate Tools
To succeed at online schooling, students must have the correct tools. Institutions provide specifications for computers and software, and students should make sure they understand and have regular access to these materials. Fast, reliable internet connections are essential to learning success. If a student needs assistance obtaining these items, they should consult their institution for guidance. Some students may use computer labs at local colleges or libraries, although this is not ideal for ongoing online learning programs.
Online learning can be an excellent alternative to traditional classroom environments. Students who are prepared, understand their program and have strong organizational and study skills have potential to find success through these unique opportunities.
