Tips for Virtual Success

• Be sure that your computer and Internet connection are working well. Find upgrades of everything you need, particularly your browser. If you are having trouble, check the UMassOnline Help Desk by calling 1-888-300-6407 or emailing amherstsupport@umassonline.net .

• Communicate with your Instructor. One easy way to contact your Instructor is to send an e-mail message from the internal Mail area of the online course. You can also use the Chat option if your Instructor is online. If you have a pressing question, call. The phone certainly is an acceptable means of communication.

• Check your e-mail and login to the course Web site on a regular basis. Checking everyday is the best way to keep up with the course. At a minimum, check your e-mail and read postings in the Discussions every other day.

• Be self-directed and self-motivated. Since you do not have a physical place to show up as you would in a regular course, you can procrastinate and easily get behind in your work. Working on the course in short chunks of time will keep you motivated and prevent the feeling of overwhelm.

• Set up a routine and stick to it. For example, tell yourself that you will spend at least 15 minutes after dinner each day checking the course site for new postings.

• Pay attention to due dates. Don't let yourself fall behind.

• Be flexible. If you're having trouble with one assignment, work on another. Ask questions and get help and then go back to it.

• Did I say "ask questions?" Yes, that's a great way to be successful in this course.  In the course Web site there is a discussion board called Frequently Asked Questions where you can post questions of a general nature.

• Be persistent. Don't give up. And don't get frustrated. It's just a computer.

• Save a copy of everything! Work on longer assignments offline. Save them and then "copy" and "paste" to email or the Discussions area.

• If you have a learning disability or difficulty reading, print online readings.

• The more you communicate with your group members and your instructors, the more you will learn from this course. When someone posts in the Discussions, ask a question or add your own thoughts and opinions.

• Don't delay. Log on the first day that you can. Practice communicating with your classmates and the Instructors.

• Read the course Syllabus (inside UMassOnline) and Communications Guidelines carefully, so you know what’s expected.

• If life circumstances cause you to be behind, let your Instructors know as soon as possible by sending an email.