East Hartford, CT 06118
Tel 860.528.4111
Toll Free 800.889.3282
How to be a Successful Distance Education Student at Goodwin College
There is no question that learning brings power and success, and Goodwin College Distance Education courses have opened a whole new chapter for its students to advance their education and career. Most anyone can succeed as a Distance Education student if he/she follows the strategies outlined here.
1. Make sure you have everything you need to start:
A list of computer requirements is posted on the Goodwin College website. Click here to make sure your computer meets the necessary specifications and that you have the right peripherals (printer, speakers, microphone, etc) and software (Adobe Acrobat to read PDF files, Microsoft
Minimum Computer Skill Requirements
Our Basic Online Skills Review will take you through the skills you need to know to be able to communicate with your classmates and instructors and complete your assignments online. [currently here]
Minimum Technology Requirements
To study online, your home computer should meet the following minimum requirements:
- Windows - XP/Vista Internet Explorer 7.x (Internet Explorer 8.x not officially supported for use with all CTDLC systems) Firefox 3.x or higher
- Mac Operating System - OS 10.4.x, 10.5.x, or 10.6.x Firefox 3.x or higher Safari 2.x or higher
- Additional Notes All browsers require JavaScript, Java, Popups, and Cookies to be enabled.
2. Be self-motivated and self-disciplined:
With the freedom and flexibility of Distance Education courses comes responsibility. Distance Education students, who participated in a survey interview, confirmed that the online process requires a real commitment and discipline to keep up with the learning progression. You can easily fall behind in your online course work if you do not stay motivated. You will not be going to a classroom everyday where the teacher repeatedly reminds you of test and assignment due dates and so forth. You have to be a dedicated student in order to perform well in Distance Education courses. It is up to you to check your course’s announcement page daily, ask questions when needed, keep up with the due dates and deadlines of your assignments and tests, and read assigned textbook chapters and other materials.
3. Develop a time-management strategy:
Time management is one of the biggest factors in succeeding at your Distance Education courses. Successful Distance Education students have to be very proactive in their studies and take responsibility for their own learning. It is very important that you manage your time and schedule your availability effectively to ensure regular attendance and participation in your classes. Most Goodwin College students who were interviewed noted that establishing regular study times helped them ensure enough time for class participation and timely assignment completion. One student commented, “Although the course material can be done at any time of the day that you choose, it is very important to create a standard schedule and follow it, setting specific study days and hours was one factor that helped me succeed. For example, in the evenings throughout the week, I read my lessons. Saturdays were generally reserved for writing assignments. Saturdays were also devoted to responding to other Discussion Board postings and adding to what I had already submitted.”
4. Take advantage of Support Services:
Goodwin College offers a variety of services to assist its students in becoming successful online learners. Continuing services include academic advising, library access, the writing center, student services advising, and financial aid resources. Make sure to take advantage of these services to facilitate your learning experience online.
5. Communication - Don’t be afraid to ask questions and interact with your instructor:
If you are experiencing difficulty either with the technology or with a course’s content, you must communicate this immediately to your instructor. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. As an Distance Education student there are several ways to get the answers you are seeking. You can e-mail your instructor, call him/her on the phone, or post your question in the “ASK THE INSTRUCTOR” forum available in the Discussion Board. Distance Education provides first class support so that students never feel lost or alone during the e-learning process. Ask questions. Ask for help. Offer ideas. Always keep in touch with your instructor.
6. Make the most of online discussions:
The online Discussion Board is central to the learning experience at Distance Education. Student interaction at Distance Education occurs predominately through the Discussion Board, which allows instructors and students to interact in asynchronous time. Most instructors will expect you to answer questions weekly, as well as respond to your classmates’ posts. Therefore, students at Distance Education are expected to communicate effectively in writing. You need to make sure you are prepared before posting any answers on the D.B. You should read your lessons and your textbook anddo some extra research on the subject matter. Also, make sure to reflect on your classmates posts. Don’t just say “good post” or “I agree.”