Getting started in an online program can seem daunting at first. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your online program:

Work environment

  • Set up a quiet place in your home where you can study undisturbed. Your computer, room lighting, broadband connection, even your chair—all are key to creating an environment optimized for studying and learning. 

Time and scheduling

  • Be aware that the flexibility of the online environment can be challenging for students who are prone to procrastination. Don’t be fooled by its flexibility! Courses are not self-paced. You will be required to keep up with the class and meet deadlines. Be aware of your dates and deadlines when you start the class; most classes have weekly assignments and discussions. 
  • Find a time management system that works for you. Choose a calendar or time management system that is reliable and easy to update. Make a note of all due dates and set reminders.
  • Print syllabi and course calendars and keep them in a highly visible place so you can refer to them often. 
  • Set aside time each day to devote to your online class the same way you would for attending a class in person. Make sure you set aside sufficient time each day to study. Think of it as an appointment you can’t miss!

The online learning environment

  • Log into your online courses as often as you can—at least five times a week—and every day if you can. You don’t want to miss out on important updates or discussions that happen in your classes.
  • Check your email often (daily, if possible) and make sure MSU has your correct, preferred email address.
  • Be clear in your communications. Whether it is an email or discussion posting, remember that in online courses, the non-verbal cues that are so important in face-to-face communication are nonexistent. Consider composing emails, discussion posts or responses in a word processing document (e.g., Microsoft Word) first, then copying and pasting into the email or course discussion area. This can give you time to think about what you want to say and how best to say it, and allows you to check for grammar and spelling errors.
  • Consider that once you post something in an online class, you may not be able to remove it. Think carefully about what you want to say in your post before you submit it. 
  • Ask questions if you are not sure about something. Use the interactive tools available to you (such as the Discussion Board, Pages and Email) to ask your instructors and fellow classmates questions. Keep in mind that what you ask on a Discussion Board can be seen by others in your class, so if you need to ask a question in private, use email.
  • Keep in mind “Netiquette.” Netiquette is pretty much as it sounds: social guidelines and rules that dictate interaction in online environments. For example, TYPING IN ALL CAPS IS CONSIDERED SHOUTING. 
  • It’s pretty basic: Don’t say things that you wouldn’t normally say to someone in a face-to-face environment. It can be easy to say anything in an environment that feels anonymous, but keep in mind that you are interacting with real people in your online courses. Be careful with sarcasm and humor; it often doesn’t translate in an online environment. Remember, too, that even though you are not in a classroom, you are still expected to abide by the MSU Student Conduct Code.
  • Keep your class syllabus and read it! The class syllabus is the road map that typically lists all course readings, assignments and deadlines. You can refer to it throughout the course to make sure you are on track.
  • Online learning can sometimes feel isolating. Be involved and interactive. Taking part in class discussions and communicating with your instructors and your advisor can help you feel more connected.

Technology

  • Technology can sometimes fail us. Connectivity fails. Computers crash. Have a backup plan and keep copies of your work on a cloud or backup device. MSU’s Help Desk phone number is (406) 994-1777.

Advising

  • Find out who your advisor is. Make an appointment and establish a positive relationship. Prepare for your advising appointment by having your transcripts close by and researching the classes offered as part of your program.

Personal life

  • Minimize social distractions. Consider turning off your phone and logging off social networks during study time. 
  • Turn to classmates, a friend or your family for support. If you’re stuck on an assignment or facing writer’s block on a research paper, email or use tools in the online Learning Management System software (Brightspace by D2L) to reach out to a fellow classmate. Talk to your family before you start your degree about the importance of pursuing your degree and how they can support you. 
  • Reward yourself and have fun! Just the fact that you are taking online classes is a tremendous accomplishment. Reward yourself along the way.