- Introduce yourself
Beginning on the first day, introduce yourself to your classmates in a discussion forum. Say hello and give some background information about yourself. Connect with classmates on LinkedIn or other social media outlets. Even though you won’t see them in person, doesn’t mean you can’t form bonds and help each other out. By just putting your name out there, it helps to make the class feel more personable and not as if you are all alone. You will eventually get to know other classmates and they will be part of your network.
- Use the provided discussion board
Discussion boards are your friend! They are a great way to communicate by asking questions, asking for clarity, sharing ideas and you can help others out as well. It should be easy to communicate through the discussion board, not intimidating. Most online students miss interaction with other students and the discussion board is a way to have that communication.Use it often and stay connected.
- Work together
Yes, you read that right. It is possible to work together. You are not alone in the online course. Each student is finding their way around in the online college world. You will all have your reasons for taking the online course but one thing you share is your desire to succeed. You can all work together using any source of connecting made available to you, such as discussion boards. Work out issues surrounding the course and help each other out if there is confusion around an assignment. Pass on any tips to help your peers be successful.
- Plan meet-ups
If by chance you happen to live near a classmate, make arrangements to meet in person. You can work together on assignments, discuss the course or simply be able to put a face with a name. If meeting in person is not possible, start a facebook group with your classmates. This is a great way to communicate outside of the class forum. You will be able to get to know them on a more personal level and develop friendships and contacts after the class is over.
Attending college online is a great way to complete your education. There are ways to connect with others who are on the same path. Just because you don’t see them everyday in class doesn’t mean you cannot connect with them. If you work to build relationships with your peers, it will pay off in the future.