Tips for Success

Hey Mountaineer! You may be used to online courses, but if this is your first attempt at learning online, here are some tips:

1. Time Management
   Don’t wait until the last minute to get started. Treat your online courses the same as you would a face-to-face course. Determine what time you are going to virtual class and stick to that routine. Routines = success in an online environment.
2. Remove Distractions
   Find a quiet space to login and learn. Binge watching TV while you work is not the best idea. You need to stay focused.
3. Go Silent on Social
   Social media deserves its own category, because calling it a distraction seems like an understatement. Put your phone down and place it on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’ mode.
4. Make a Study Plan
   Work on your classwork during the time of day when you perform best and keep a planner to stay organized. Write down which topics you’ll work on each day or use a basic ‘to-do’ list.
5. Take Advantage of WVU Resources
   You have access to WVU Libraries, tutoring, proctoring, mental health resources and more.
6. Take Scheduled Breaks
   Relax for a few minutes petting a dog, taking a walk, getting a snack, etc. You’ll get back to your work feeling refreshed.
7. Join the Discussion
   Participate on the online forums, just like you would in a discussion in a face-to-face class. Your professors still want you to learn and be successful. If you’re struggling with a class and have questions, reach out to your professor and ask if they can set up virtual office hours to help explain a topic.
8. Join a Study Team
   We know some classes can be rather difficult, so reach out to some of your classmates to set up a virtual study group. Pick each other’s brains, see how their assignments are going, and check on your other classmates. You can use Google Hangouts through your MIX account to reach out to each other.
9. Make Studying Enjoyable
   Play happy or mellow music while you study. Being comfortable makes online learning enjoyable for you.
10. Reward yourself
    Be sure and treat yourself once you’ve accomplished everything on your to-do list. You deserve it!