Notably, there is a clear cut difference between regular students and the ones who usually do their learning using the online platform. The regular student is in constant contact with their fellow students and tutors whereas the online student has to create a platform that will enable them to access the required materials for their learning for so that they can be at par with the other students (Moore, 2013). Online studies are asynchronous in nature which means that the student and the lecturer need not be logged into the classroom at the same time. They perform their activities and submit any assignments according to the times they deem to be the most appropriate for them. These online learners need to develop particular traits that will enable them to gain as much content as their counterparts who have constant interactions with their teachers. These characteristics are discussed below;
• Goal oriented
Based on the fact that such a student needs to be up to date with the happenings in the real world class, it is imperative that they be focused on achieving the goals of their online studies by observing self-discipline (Simpson, 2013). This strategy is essential in making sure that the student benefits maximally from the online studying.
• Independent learners
These students need to put emphasis on taking responsibility for their education course. To achieve this objective, there is the need for them to cultivate a through reading culture of the assigned textbooks and identifying the key points, meeting the set deadlines by the tutors, participating in discussions and engaging other students through their responses.
• Setting and sticking to a schedule
For online students to meet the objectives of meeting their stipulated deadlines for them to stay abreast with the current happenings in the real world classroom, it is vital that they set schedules that will enable them to work through the tight deadlines expected of them (Wang et al., 2013). As such, it is beneficial that such a student logs into the virtual classroom for a period that is above the minimum number of hours required.
• They should not be get frustrated easily
Online students are usually faced with a lot of challenges for instance software glitches, breaking down of ISP servers and periodic power outages. These are the possible sources of frustrations to this type of a student (Simpson, 2013). As such, there is the need for them to have contingency plans in terms of an alternative computer and power source.
• Showing responsible netiquette
Showing respect for the virtual classroom is an important factor in online learning mainly through the communication process between them, other students and the instructor. Such a move is helpful in achieving the gains related to appropriate interactions.
References
Moore, M. G. (Ed.). (2013). Handbook of distance education. Routledge.
Simpson, O. (2013). Supporting students in online open and distance learning. Routledge.
Wang, C. H., Shannon, D. M., & Ross, M. E. (2013). Students’ characteristics, self-regulated learning, technology self-efficacy, and course outcomes in online learning. Distance Education, 34(3), 302-323.
