Top tips for becoming an online student

Online courses are becoming increasing popular and it’s no surprise given the flexibility and convenience they offer students. From quizzes to discussion boards and live tutorials, e-learning is an ever-more interactive format. How to make the most of your online learning experience is something a lot of our ATI Online students ask us when first starting. So we asked some of our online students and teaching staff, and here are their top tips to try:

Start off on the right foot

The first few weeks of the semester can be busy as you’re figuring out your new timetable and course structure. This is a good time to find out what works for you and to set out your study schedule. Creating daily and weekly study goals is a great way to make sure you’re keeping up-to-date with the workload and will help you stay motivated.

Know the syllabus

It’s worthwhile familiarising yourself with the syllabus and the academic calendar to mark all your class times in your own diary. The syllabus is your guide to the subjects you'll be studying throughout the year, whilst the calendar will provide you with the online classes and lecture seminars timetable, as well as when assignments are due. Don’t just file them away, review the syllabus and calendar early and refer to them often. 

Get to grips with the technology

For many of us, we’ve been propelled even further into a new virtual world but don’t worry, our online e-learning platform, Moodle, is user-friendly and designed to enhance your online study experience. Make the most of the subject and student forums to ask questions and hear from your fellow students. This supportive online community will only grow as the course progresses so be sure to log on and introduce yourself.

Students should refrain from sharing inappropriate material or misleading information in any forums. Rember, it's important to communicate respectfully as you would in an in-person environment, and you'll gain the respect from your teachers and peers in doing so. 

Carve out a study space

Finding a quiet space to study can be difficult, especially with all the hubbub of family life happening in the background! If possible, try and carve out a designated study space somewhere with a desk and comfortable chair so you can focus on engaging with the online course material and eliminate any distractions (Netflix anyone?).

Find your balance

We all learn at a different pace and in different ways. It may have been a while ago since you were last in a classroom or perhaps, you’re completely new to the world of accounting and finance? Not to worry; all online classes and lectures seminars are recorded so you can watch back as needed and don’t forget to make use of the My Revision tool. It’s also important to take regular breaks when studying in order to stay mentally and physically refreshed.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If you didn’t quite catch something in class or you’re struggling with the material, your tutor is here to help. Pop your query into the forum and they’ll get back to within 24 hours. Speak up during live online tutorials and lectures – your fellow students will thank you for it – and draw on the knowledge and experience of your peers by posting any questions into the student forum. You’ll be amazed at just how many people have your back!