Successful Online Students

Skills students need for online learning include personal skills, study skills, general computer and Internet skills.

Personal skills

There's no question - the nature of study at a tertiary level is changing. Increasingly the onus for learning is placed on you the student. If you're used to your lecturer giving you all the answers, you should try and become a more active learner – one who takes responsibility for their own learning, motivation and self discipline. Now more than ever you have the opportunity to participate in your learning, not just be a passive receiver. Using the Internet in your studies gives you access to a global community of learners and teachers – so take advantage of them.

Study skills

Although studying online may be a new phenomenon to you, there are some things about studying that remain the same regardless of new technology. Things like time management, motivation, being clear of expectations and exam preparation still remain important aspects of study.

Studying online is very dependent on reading and writing skills. Much subject content will be delivered by readings, and a lot of your communication will be in written form. If you know these are not your areas of strength, seek some support and try and develop these skills.

For assistance, refer to the Learning Skills Web site, or contact a Learning Skills Adviser. Your teaching staff may also be able to assist you in these areas.

General computer skills

You will need at least a basic level of proficiency in computer use to successfully study online. Skills such as word processing, file management, saving and printing will all be useful, if not essential skills for an online learner.

Knowledge Bank is a great place for you to start if you wish to hone your computer skills. Knowledge Bank is an online interactive training tool for CSU students and staff that provides short interactive tutorials on common features for Microsoft Office Applications.

Internet skills

Of course you will need some basic Internet skills in order to study online. Being able to go to specific URLS, book-marking, saving and printing Web pages will all be important skills. More advanced skills such as Web searching and Web site evaluation would also benefit most students.