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Job Search Tips :Make the Most of Your Online Class

Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008


Online classes are a blessing for busy healthcare professionals. They allow you to keep up with medical advancements, increase your skills, and meet continuing education requirements at a time that’s convenient for you.

Try these tips to get the most out of your next online class:

  • Get acquainted. Familiarize yourself with the course’s online delivery system. Find the course syllabus, schedule, calendar, requirements, methods of communication, where to go for help, etc. Take any tutorials offered. Try out the log-in instructions. Report access issues immediately.
  • Prepare. Give yourself every opportunity to succeed. Find a quiet place to work without distractions. Engage the support of family and friends to help with household chores, errands or child care so you have time to concentrate on your coursework. Arrange a back-up plan in case you have computer problems.
  • Tune in. Carefully read all written material from your instructor. Log on every day to check for instructions and to participate in discussions.
  • Participate. Take full advantage of online conferences. The anonymity of online classes can be very liberating. Don’t be shy about contributing your ideas, perspective, and comments. Do read your classmates’ comments and be respectful and polite in your responses.
  • Keep up. Allow at least 3 hours per week per credit hour for coursework. Set up a daily schedule for working on assignments and stick to it. Don’t get behind. Try to complete all assignments before the due date so you have time to get help.
  • Speak up. Don’t hesitate to speak up when you have a question. In conversation, we rely on visual cues and body language to help convey our thoughts. Online, those nuances are absent. If you don’t speak up, no one will know you need help.
  • Apply your knowledge. Use what you learn on your job. Applying your coursework to the real world will help you internalize what you are learning and give you valuable new insight into your job.