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Resources for Adult Students

Succeeding in an online course doesn’t happen by accident, it comes from building habits that help you stay organized, connected, and confident. Use the tips below to set yourself up for success.

  • Understand the Time Commitment
    • Online courses move quickly, particularly in accelerated formats. Plan to spend consistent time each week engaging with course materials, assignments, and feedback. Logging in early and working steadily throughout the week helps prevent last-minute stress and missed requirements.
    • At the start of each week:
      • Look over all learning resources and assignments.
      • Estimate how many hours you’ll need.
      • Set specific times in your schedule to work on the course. Consistent, planned study sessions make a huge difference, especially when balancing school with work and family.
  • Read Assignment Instructions and Rubrics Carefully
    • Before starting an assignment
    • Read the full assignment instructions.
    • Review the grading rubric to understand how points are earned.
    • Examine any examples, templates, or tutorials provided.
    • Using the rubric as a checklist before submitting your work can help ensure your assignment meets expectations.
  • Ask Questions Early and Be Specific
    • If something is unclear, reach out to your instructor early rather than waiting until the due date. When asking questions, reference the assignment name, section, or requirement so your instructor can provide clear and timely guidance.
  • Take Ownership of Your Learning
    • Online learning requires active participation and accountability. Monitor your progress, review grades regularly, and reach out if something does not look right. Being proactive helps address concerns before they escalate.
  • Plan for Balance and Flexibility
    • Work, family, and personal responsibilities can change unexpectedly. Build buffer time into your schedule when possible and communicate early if challenges arise. Consistency, planning, and communication are key to long-term success.
  • Update Your Canvas Notification Settings
    • Please ensure that you receive notifications from Canvas to stay informed of important updates, resources, and reminders provided by your instructor.
    • To update your account:
      • Log into Canvas
      • Go to Account → Notifications
  • Canvas tips
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