4. Myths about online learning
Be aware of the following myths (untrue statements) that can sabotage your success.
Myth 1: I can do assignments any time.
You can complete assignments day or night, but classwork must be submitted by the assignment deadline. Check your class syllabus for the schedule of assignments and deadlines.
Myth 2: Online classes do not follow the regular semester.
Online classes follow the same semester as on-campus class. Payment, scheduling, policies for withdrawing, and other procedures are the same for online classes.
Myth 3: I can remain anonymous in an online class.
There are a lot of required discussions and other activities between students and instructors in an online class. This gives you the opportunity to participate in a dialogue. This interaction will be valuable to you with the course material and also through connecting with your classmates and instructor. Because these interactions are not face-to-face, shy individuals can participate in a non-threatening environment. But participation is a consistent expectation in online classes, and you will need to be prepared.
Myth 4: Personal attention does not exist in an online class.
In most cases, you will have a great deal of interaction with instructors and classmates—sometimes more than a traditional classroom setting. Some online classes have required log-on times or mandatory participation in chat rooms and discussion boards. This helps create a sense of community in the online class environment.
Remember, you can still contact your instructor at any time. Online classes create an important community of learners.
Myth 5: Online classes are easier than on-campus classes.
Online classes are not easier compared to traditional classes. Because you do not spend time in a classroom, online classes tend to be more demanding and can require more time than on-campus classes. Extensive reading and time management for assignment deadlines are required for you to succeed in an online class.
Do not underestimate the time commitment. Pace yourself and ensure you can fulfill the demands of an online class. If possible, ask someone about their experience with online classes.
Myth 6: Computer or technology problems are acceptable excuses.
A broken or non-functional computer or network / internet problem is not an acceptable excuse to miss a deadline. You should have a backup option or do your work well in advance of the deadline. Most online instructors will not accept the excuse that a computer was not functioning.
The College computer lab and the library are places where a computer is generally available. Advance planning and critical thinking are required in an online class. This extends to making sure you have access to a working computer and internet connection when it is time to complete your assignments.
Myth 7: The College will provide me with a computer for my classes.
HFC can sometimes, but not always, provide students with Chromebook laptops. Before you sign up for an online class, you must have consistent and reliable access to a computer and internet connection. Some classes may be taken with a Chromebook, but others require a more high-function computer with specialized software.
Myth 8: I will receive computer instruction as part of my online class.
Instructors do not provide technical support or demonstrate how to use a computer for online classes. If a class requires use of specialized software, the instructor will make sure you receive online instruction on how to use that specialized software. But you must be confident with basic computer skills prior to beginning any online class.
Myth 9: Procrastination is okay in online classes.
Procrastination always brings trouble in online classes. In fact, procrastination in online class can often cause more problems than procrastination in a traditional class. You will need to be independent, motivated, and a self-starter. You must be able to set and follow your own schedule, as well as manage the flexibility of an online class.
Myth 10: I can cram all my work into one study session.
You must login and do your work regularly -- preferably every day. Most students learn best when they have an opportunity to learn smaller amounts of material and reflect on that material before moving on to other concepts.
Many instructors require regular participation in online discussions. Not only do these discussions help you to understand new concepts, in some cases points are awarded for regular class participation. Grades can suffer in many ways if you only log in intermittently.
