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CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction................................................................................... ………1-2
2.0 Body of report
2.1 Technology Proficiency................................................................ 3
2.2 Time management and problem solving
abilities................................................................................ …….4
2.3 Learning style ............................................................................. 5
2.4 Self-motivated and self-disciplined ………………………….….6
3.0 Suggestion
3.1 Read the syllabus………………………………………………..7
3.2 Plan weekly study times ................................................. ………8
3.3 Log onto the course home a minimum three times per
week……………………………………………………………..9
3.4 Make connections with fellow students ..........………………...10
4.0 References .............................................................................. ………... 11-12
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Before we can discuss about the attributes that will help us to be a successful online
learner, we need to understand what online learning is. Online learningcan be define in many
ways, but the essential component for all is delivering and receiving course materials with the
use of computing and telecommunication. (Excelsior college, n.d.).
In online learning, learning communities are created from Internet or videoconferencing.
(Excelsior college, n.d.). To retrieve course materials, just clickin a Web site will do.Besides,
those materials are occasionally also found on CD-ROM. For the interaction between students
and teachers, email, bulletin boards, forums, and chat rooms are normally being used.
Online learning can be said as enhancing the traditional forms of education. It may take
place in anywhere, no matter in the classroom or workplace, at home, at online access centres, or
even at a public library. (Excelsior college, n.d.). A hands-on experience using information
technologies was provided by online learning and it also helps students to access learning and
customized lessons in easier way.
To be a successful online learner, we need to possess a variety of skills and
characteristics. We should be being proficient with using a computer, good in time management
and have the ability to solve problems,have good learning style and having self-motivated and
self-disciplined
Online learning may refer to a range of approaches, from making resources available
electronically to the creation of rich, interactive, online experiences involving synchronous and
asynchronous conferencing. (Excelsior college, n.d.).Thus, more research on this technologies
sector has to be done and those online learners have to prepare themselves with the attributes that
require so they can be successful online learner hence have a better life in future.
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2.0 BODY OF REPORT
2.1 Technology proficiency
Technology proficiency carries the meaning of the ability to use technology and being
comfortable with using it.
Those online learners are expected to have the ability to utilize the library resources in
writing their course assignment with a professional manner. Nowadays, students always face the
difficulty in understanding their tasks. Thus, by being proficient in using technologies such as
email and chats are useful in communicating with the instructor for helpful information
A distance learner is identified with a profile that is possibly similar or diverse from that
of others. According to Holmberg (1995), he said that, “These learners are very heterogeneous” (
as cited in Smaldino, Albright &Zvack, 2009, p.47). Online learning is done by the interaction
ofa course group. Thus,“instructional designers will be required to put forth an enormous attempt
to integrate thetechnologies to meet the needs of distance learners and foster collaboration and
interaction among these learners”.(Chaney, J., Chaney, E. Stellefson, and Eddy, 2008).
Online learners who are not proficient at navigating through wikis, blogs, and discussion
boards will face difficulty throughout the process of learning. According to Bray, Harris,
&Major, (2007) “distance education endeavours can be hindered by technology itself”. As
Wilson (2001) states, “reliable technology with readily available support is vital for success”
(Bray, Harris, & Major, 2001).
In conclusion, in order to be successful in online learning, there are various needs.
Learners must have the ability to communicate their needs. A good online learner has to describe
themselves as being proficient with using a computer. When they have been asked to use new
technologies, they should feel confident and enjoy in trying it out. Besides, they should be
convenient and able to access to a computer with internet connection frequently. Last but not
least, they should also have the ability to know how to access or finding information using
internet.(Social work, n.d.).
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2.2 Time management and problem solving abilities
As we know, today`s people always complaining about their insufficient time. Thus, time
management play a very important role if we want to become a successful online learner.
Besides, the ability to solve problems is also a very important.
For time management, online learner should be able to arrange their own time by
dividing their time wisely and able to cover everything no matter in working or studying or
family. They should also set their own deadlines and stick to the deadlines without
procrastinating(Wordpress, 2012) while, for the abilities of problem solving, online learner
should always try out themselves to get the solutions. When problem arise, they should generally
feel like they can figure things out on their own without relying on another. Besides, when they
do counter a problem that they cannot solve, they should feel confident in asking for help.(Social
work, n.d.).
In conclusion, the ability to manage time is the major factor forstudents to be succeeded
as an online learner. As an online learner, it is very important for them to always keep track with
exams that are coming up, assignments that are scheduled, or due date for papers that must be
submitted. “This means that goals should be set as well as utilize some sort of time management
system in order to keep track of everything.”(Wordpress, 2012).Agood time management
strategy can help to avoid procrastination. With organizing a plan for time management, it will
let us follow the guide to complete things that we need to doso learner will not waste their
valuable time in doing unnecessary things. According toGarcis (2010), “Good distance learners
never put off their work.” The ability to manage time not onlyimportant for completing course
work timely but it is also one of the main attribute that online learners that must follow in order
they want to be an successful online learner.
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2.3 Learning style
Learning style is an individual's natural or habitual pattern of acquiring and processing
information in learning situations. By having a good learning style, it can help us to become a
successful learner. A good learning style can be said as always focus in studying and being
hardworking. Besides, a good learning style can also be consider as containing Visual, Aural,
Verbal, Physical, Logical, Social and Solitary. (Learning style online, n.d.).
Many people say that every different individualhave different learning styles and
techniques. According to Learning style online(n.d.), “some people may find that they have a
dominant style of learning, with far less use of the other styles. Others may find that they use
different styles in different circumstances. There is no right mix.”We can develop our won
learning style as long as we feel comfortable in using it and it is workable.
A successful learner should always feel comfortable in learning new information on
them. During studying, they should show their interest toward the course. They have to be
always participating in learning process actively through projects and group assignment. They
also should complete they assignment without delaying and always focus in studying.(Social
work, n.d.).
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2.4 Self-motivated and self-disciplined
With the freedom and flexibility of the online environment, it need learner`s
responsibility in the learning process. The online process require learner`s self-control and being
discipline to keep up with the flow of the process or learning.This will motivate learners and
allow them to be more successful in their learning.(Social work, n.d.).
Distance learners must be self-motivated in order to be successful. Since students are not
forced to attend classes but only the places that can access internet, thusit require learners` self-
motivation to focus on their studies because there is no one to keep them on task (Wilkinson,
2010). Distance learning is a great choice for those who areinfluenced by certain barriers which
prevent them to attend traditional class with the ability to motivate them. According to
Wordpress (2012), “Distance learning transfers the encumbrance of motivation from the
structure of the classroom onto the shoulder of the learner.” Learners need to have the initiative
to login to internet to access the course and complete their work. Learnersthat are lack with the
self-discipline and self-motivation during online learning are believed will“fall through the
cracks of the distance learning structure”. According to University of Otago (2011), “online
learning requires learners to be self-motivated as they are affected by other responsibilities, have
no one to provide encouragement, distractions, and lack of guidance. indicated, effective distance
learners become and stay responsible for themselves”.
These attribute are very important for online learner to be successful. In order to be
successful at completing assignments, distance learners must be self-motivated so that they are
able to work at their own pace and be a successful independent learner. If these characteristics
are not being assessed in earning a degree, then learners must be capable of communicating their
needs to the correct supporting system that will support them in achieving success.(Social work,
n.d.).
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3.0 SUGGESTIONS
3.1 Read the syllabus.
“The syllabus is a critical resource for any course. It is the road map or ‘game plan’ for
the entire course – get to know it well.” (Wordpress,2012)To be a successful online learner, we
need to print a copy of syllabus or the course outline on the first day of class and keep read
through it twice. At the same time, we should highlight, then record the due dates for every
assignments and record in our personal calendar. If you need reminders, add those too. Once the
course gets going, review assignment instructions, discussion topics, etc. at the beginning of each
week and consult grading guidelines and check dues dates. (Chaney, J., Chaney, E. Stellefson,
and Eddy, 2008). Hence, it will be much easier for us to complete the assignments as we are
already familiar with the instructions.By go through the syllabus and prepare for coursework,
quizzes and exams without the close guidance of the course instructor.
There is an online student said that : “I had work and family responsibilities when I took
online courses – life would get crazy! After the first course when I missed the due dates for
assignments one too many times, I was determined not to get behind again. The most effective
method for me was to enter the due dates in my calendar. I was then able to get a handle on what
was due when.”(Wordpress, 2012)
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3.2 Plan weekly study times.
During studies, studying, participating in forums, and completing assignments in an
online class can be challenging. Every online learner has find out that time management is the
main problemfor them. Thus, what those successful students will do is planning a regular study
time and blocking off set times each week. According to the study referenced in 2010, by the
method of planning a schedule and stick to the schedule, 79% of students identified this method
of managing their time are workable for them and lead them to their success..(Wordpress, 2012)
There is an online student said that: “Setting and staying to specific study days was one
factor that worked for me. For example, in the evenings throughout the week, I read the lessons.
Weekends were generally reserved for working on assignments. Saturdays were also devoted to
online postings and building on what I had submitted.(Wordpress, 2012)
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3.3 Log onto the course home a minimum three times per week.
According to several studies on online student behaviours,logging onto the course home
page consistently each week is associated with higher grades for students. Get into the habit of
checking in consistently, even daily, to read discussion posts, check for instructor
announcements and review course materials. While we are logged on, we should get involved
and be an active participant in discussions. Though threaded discussions may appear daunting
when you first get started, everyone has something of value to contribute. By logging on
consistently each week, reading and responding to classmate postings, we will begin to feel part
of a community, and enhance our learning experience at the same time. (Wordpress, 2012)
There is an online student said that: “The experience was greatly enriched by the
relationships and interaction with my fellow students. It amazes me how well we got to know
each other even though we were often thousands of miles apart and were only virtual classmates.
I learned as much from other students as I did from the instructors.”(Wordpress, 2012)
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3.4 Make connections with fellow students.
Connecting with online classmates and building a learning community is easier than we
might think given all of the social tools and applications available today. Reach out to one
student, send an email to ask a question, or create a Facebook group for your class, or even
create a small study group. Thesesocial networks will allows us to video chat and discuss in
‘real’ time, even share documents and Web pages.(Wordpress, 2012)
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4.0 REFRENCES
Bray, N., Harris, M., & Major, C. (2007). New verse or the same old chorus?:
lookingHolistically at distance education research. Research in Higher Education, 48(7),
889-908. doi:10.1007/s11162-007-9054-7Chaney, J., Chaney, E. H., Stellefson, M. L., &
Eddy, J. M. (2008). Strategies for Designing a Distance Education Course/Program. Health
Education Monograph Series, 25(1), 18-22.
Excelsior college. (n.d.). What is online learning.Excelsior college. Retrieved from
http://www.excelsior.edu/web/student-online-success-guide/online-learning
Garcis, H. (2010). Getting successful as a distance learner.Ezine Articles.Retrieved from
http://EzineArticles.com/3803925.
Learning styles online. (n.d.).Overview of learning style.Learning styles online. Retrieved
http://www.learning-styles-online.com/overview/
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., &Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a
distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.
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Social work.(n.d.).Attributes of a Successful Online Learner.Buffalo. Retrieved from
http://www.socialwork.buffalo.edu/msw/electives/online-learner.asp
University of Otago.(2011). Qualities of highly successful distance education
students.Otago.Retrieved from
http://www.otago.ac.nz/courses/distance_study/otago015710.html.
Wilkinson, M. (2010). Why distance learning can be a good way to study when you have a
disability. Helium.Retrieved from http://www.helium.com/items/1987584-whydistance-
learning-can-be-a-good-way-to-study-when-you-have-a-disability
Wordpress. (September 28, 2012) Five-step Strategy for Student Success with Online
Learning.Wordpress.http://onlinelearninginsights.wordpress.com/2012/09/28/five-step-
strategy-for-student-success-with-online-learning/
