Online Learning Checklist
Everything you need for online learning. Done 1. You’ll need a computer with a modern operating system, such as Windows 10. Athabasca University will provide you with a free Microsoft Office365 subscription, including all the productivity software to complete your course. For some advanced courses, you may need additional software that will be listed on your course syllabus. Check our IT help desk page for what specifications you will need for your computer and check your course syllabus for any additional software requirements. 2. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection to reduce any issues with network connectivity. To be safe, be sure to also have a backup spot to study, in case you ever lose your internet connection. This can include a friend’s or family member’s home, or a public space like a library or cafe. 3. Find some digital tools that can help with your coursework. Applications like Google Scholar can help you keep track of other documents to reference in your coursework. Having a cloud-based backup, such as Google Drive, to store your study files could also be important if you ever have an issue with your computer. Check out our study tips page for more advice on independent learning, this webinar series with advice about online learning, and this CTV segment featuring AU’s Dr. Faria Sana with more great learning tips. 4. You can use your calendar or daytime planner to plan out your week, starting on Sunday. Find the time during the day that works best for you, schedule that time into your planner, and stick to that study time. The better you stick to the study schedule you set up for yourself, the easier it can be to complete your coursework. Give yourself limits on how long you will work on your studies each day. Though it might seem like a good idea to spend a lot of time on your coursework in one day, that can lead to burnout quickly, and can demotivate you from continuing your studies in the coming days and weeks. Check out our time management page for some templates that can help you plan your study schedule. 5. Make sure you’re not taking on too much all at once. If you’re balancing your studies with working full-time or taking care of family, it can feel overwhelming. Make sure you have realistic expectations for how much time you need to balance your life. Visit our study time resource page to see how many courses you could realistically take at one time.
6. Familiarize yourself with the breadth of learner support services available from AU. From academic services to counselling services and even financial aid information, learners with Athabasca University don’t need to face hardships and adversities alone. Visit our support services website to see how Athabasca University supports its learners. 7. Make sure you know your course tutor and how best to reach them. The course tutor will be the best person for you to reach out to when you have questions or concerns about your coursework. The tutors assigned to your course will be experts in the course’s content and assignments, so they will be able to provide the best guidance possible for any issues you may have with your studies. 8. Decide ahead of time when you want to take your final exams. Exams with AU need to be booked at least 20 days in advance through ProctorU, and then through our online learning portal to confirm. Be sure to review our examination page to stay up-to-date on how you can take your final
9. Create regular to-do lists to help you keep on track with your coursework. Map out your course milestones, update your to-do list regularly with your next set of milestones, and treat yourself when you achieve those milestones to help you keep motivated in your studies. You can also set daily or weekly goals for yourself. Having your goals listed out, in addition to your daily tasks, can help you keep on track with what parts of your coursework you need to complete. This can also help eliminate any tangents your attention may wander off to. Make sure the goals you set also align with the milestones you need to reach with your coursework. 10. Having a quiet, dedicated space to focus on your coursework is often necessary for learners with AU. The space should be organized, distraction free, quiet, and available during your scheduled study time. It may be challenging to find a dedicated study space depending on your living situation. Accessories like noise-cancelling headphones or ear plugs can block out noise and distractions, allowing you to keep focused during your designated study time.
Register with Athabasca University If you’re ready to continue your post-secondary journey with Athabasca University, find a course or program that fits your goals, and register today. If you have any more questions about what it takes to be successful studying online, book an appointment with a recruiter.