Online Learning Tips

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Online Learning Tips

Online learning is such a valuable tool, offering flexibility for those juggling work, family, and school.

Tips for Taking Online Classes

  1. Exercise discipline. Recognize that online courses are “real” courses. Show up to class on time and treat the class like a face-to-face course.
  2. Structure your time. Flexibility is an advantage with online classes, but it requires time management.
    • Add major assignments to your calendar and schedule out enough time to complete your projects on schedule.
    • Make sure to keep your calendar updated – use one that you check regularly. Make a practice of checking first thing every morning so you don’t miss important assignments and deadlines.
    • If you have flexibility with class scheduling, do your classes during a time when you will be most receptive. Mornings can be great before the distractions of the day set in.
  3. Set goals and be accountable. It’s great to have an instructor that sends reminders, but it’s best not to be fully dependent on that – there’s a lot going on around us right now, set your own reminders. Find a classmate and become digital accountability partner.
  4. Manage your environment. If your family congregates in the living room, set up a spot in your bedroom, free from distractions, noise, and clutter. Turn off your cell phone and stay away from social media during your school time.
  5. Take advantage of resources. Facetime or Skype with classmates to keep that class connection intact and work collectively on projects, if possible.
  6. Communicate. Your instructor is ready to help you. If you are struggling with a lecture, don’t hesitate to contact your instructor so they can better assist.
    • Online students have access to the same services as on-campus students such as the registrar’s office, career services, academic advisors, library, and financial aid.

Computer/Software Requirements

Below are the recommended minimum computer requirements in order to take online courses at Southeastern Community College. Contact your instructor for additional course requirements.

Personal Computer

  • Windows XP or later operating system
  • Pentium III processor
  • 512MB of RAM
  • Storage – 40 GB or more
  • 56 kbps modem – Broadband preferred
  • Sound Card/CD-ROM/printer Speakers/headset/microphone
  • JavaScript and cookies must be enabled
  • Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 browser or later
  • Moxilla Firefox 2.0 browser or later
  • Microsoft Office – Recommended
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader

Macintosh

  • MacOs X 10.4.x or later
  • Power PC processor
  • 1 GB MB of Ram
  • Storage – 80 GB or more
  • 56 kbps modem/ broadband preferred
  • Sound Card/CD-ROM/printer Speakers/headset/microphone
  • Safari 2.x or Firefox 2.x or higher
  • Microsoft Office – Recommended
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader