How to favorably impress your online instructor (and classmates):

Scott Johnson, Coordinator of Online Learning, John Wood Community College, Quincy, IL 62305 johnsons@jwcc.edu

• Survey the course web site or any other resources to which you are directed. Do this before the class starts if it’s possible, or right after the class starts if you must wait.
• Follow the instructions you are given before the class begins.
• Complete the orientation materials or tutorials.
• Use good Netiquette (http://www.albion.com/netiquette/index.html).
• Because no one can see you but they can see your writing, use proper grammar and spelling.   Avoid writing in all caps, and using chat slang. (see netiquette)
• Do the assignments and turn in the work.
• Read the assigned materials before you engage in discussion (unless you are directed otherwise).
• If you are going to submit written assignments as attachments or in any form of drop box, be sure to include your name, the date, and the assignment title in the document.
• Get excited and get curious!  Take advantage of the opportunity you have and explore information that is pertinent to your course at recommended or related web sites.
• When you are asked to write -- write, write, and write.
• Don’t copy someone else’s works and present them as your own (that’s plagiarism). Do your own writing and write as much as you can to help you express your thinking, and to build your own study materials.
• Connect with others in your class.
• Log in regularly and often. Don’t let more than a few days pass without logging in to the class to see what has developed and to participate in the discussion. There is a direct relationship between time-on-task in the class and success-in-class.

Derived from and inspired by “How to favorably impress an instructor”.  Jerry Clavner, professor social sciences, Cuyahoga Community College, 700 Carnegie avenue,  Cleveland, Ohio. 44115 Jerry.clavner@tri-c.edu.