Tips for Online Learners
Computer
You should have access to a computer, Internet access, and an NAU e-mail account before the term begins. See system requirements for more information. You are responsible for maintaining your own computer for the duration of the term, but you can get help 24 hours a day through our Student Technology Center at 1-888-520-7215.
Books
Get your textbooks early; they are important for your success as an online student. You can find out what textbooks you need by calling the NAU bookstore (928-523-4041) 2 months before the term begins. You can order texts through the NAU bookstore, through another online bookstore, or through a local bookstore.
Workspace
A comfortable and efficient study space is important in online learning. If you are studying at home, it is important to have a good chair and desk to work at, along with a properly functioning screen and good lighting. If you are using other workspaces such as a library or computer lab, sort out your bookings in advance to ensure you have access when you need it.
Commit Time
Commit as much time to your online course as other courses you are taking. You should expect to spend at least 135 hours/term on each 3-credit class (which would be 9 hours/week for a 15-week class or 27 hours/week for a 5-week class). Schedule your "class time" just as if you were physically going to class on campus.
Log in
Log in to class on the first day it's available! Then keeping logging in as frequently as your professor recommends--this keeps you up to date with the latest messages and other information. Classes will have different requirements about how frequently you log in, but making it a daily habit helps you stay on top of the work.
Self-discipline
Use self-discipline to keep up with assignments: don't get behind! If an instructor doesn't give a lot of due dates, make your own deadlines to help you up set a good pace to finish on time.
Professor
Remember that your professor cannot see you, so you must be absolutely explicit with your questions and requests. If you are having problems understanding something about the course, you must speak up. Find out if your professor prefers you to email, post, or call with questions. Allow a reasonable amount of time for your instructor to respond to e-mail.
NAU Library
Many NAU Library Resources are available to you online.
Refine Your Writing Skills
Writing skills are particularly important in online learning, as in most cases the only impression of you that people will receive is by your writing. If you have difficulty writing clearly, you may wish to see what resources are available in your community, possibly through a community college or other continuing education program.
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