Keep Swimming: Staying Afloat When You’re Sinking in an Online Class
- Ways to maximize your time and technology
- When to address your instructor or a school administrator
- Signs that you might have a learning disability
As a busy parent, you understand that failure is not an option. Despite the many obstacles, you find ways to succeed at work and at home because your children are counting on you. So if you find yourself struggling with an online class, use that same winning attitude to conquer the challenge. After all, your education is just as important as your daily responsibilities. And in the end, your college degree will make everyday life a lot easier.
Here are some ways to approach difficult classes and bad grades:
Evaluate Your Learning Conditions
First and foremost, online students need time. You can’t succeed as an e-learner if you don’t have sufficient time to study. Most instructors recommend that you dedicate at least 10 hours per week, per class. Insufficient time may result from your work schedule, your lack of childcare options, or poor time management skills. But with some creative maneuvering, you’re bound to find 10 extra hours in your week.
Likewise, you need to have a working computer and reliable Internet access. If you’re sharing a computer with your family, and your study time always seems to be eclipsed by your kids’ online needs, make a household schedule. Be firm about maintaining these timeframes. The schedule will ensure that you have enough time to access your course work, and it will motivate you to study when you’re supposed to be studying.
Talk to Your Instructor
Unfortunately, not all instructors are great teachers. They might know a lot about their subject, but their instructions may be confusing or vague. If your grades are suffering because you consistently misunderstand assignments and test objectives, schedule an appointment with your instructor. He or she should be available via instant message or phone call. If you still feel like there’s a disconnect between you and the teacher, talk to other students in your class. You may need to elevate your concern to a school administrator, in which case it will help if other students agree with your opinion. Either way, don’t wait until the class is over before you address the problem.
Rethink Your Major
Not everyone is cut out to be an astrophysicist. If you’re genuinely studying and seeking extra help, and you still don’t understand the class material, your brain might not be geared towards that particular field of study. In that case, you probably need to change majors. Speak with an academic advisor at your college. Just like traditional schools, online colleges employ these professionals to help you find a career path. So don’t be shy! And remember that most college students do change their majors before graduating. It’s not a failure; it’s an adjustment – and an important one!
Talk to Your Doctor
It’s difficult to diagnose a learning disorder – especially in adults. And unfortunately, many adults with learning disorders simply assume that they are “slow” or unable to master certain functions, like spelling or basic math. Signs of learning disorders are varied and complicated, but you can access a website like the LDA’s (Learning Disabilities Association of America), and see if you share many of the identified characteristics. If you do, the special education department at your school should be able to help you find testing resources. It’s also important to note that many advances have been made in learning disability counseling, policies, and civil rights. Discovering a disability will expand your test-taking options and other available resources.
Ask about Extra Credit
If you’ve displayed a sincere effort, and your grades are still low, many professors will be willing to give you an extra credit assignment. Ideally, you could retake a failed test or rewrite a sloppy paper. If the extra credit assignment is a completely different project, make sure you are clear about the instructor’s requirements before you get started. Also, ask him or her how much credit the assignment will be worth. (You may not feel that 1 or 2 points are worth the extra effort.) Finally, remember to be polite and grateful. You are creating more work for your professor, by asking him or her to grade another assignment. It’s worth a thank you note.
Rally Your Family Members
If you’re falling behind, let your family know about it. Get them involved in your progress, and ask for their help. They can pick up the slack at home, giving you more time to study. They can proof-read your papers, and quiz you before tests. They can also remind you to work harder when you feel like turning on the TV or wasting time online. Remember: if you fail a course, you’ll have to retake it. That outcome delays your graduation, which affects the entire family.
Make Your Presence Known
Class participation is a major variable in any class grade. Make a point to ask questions, and contribute during online discussions. This is easier to do if you plan ahead. Have some insightful ideas ready, before you log on. You might also look for relevant items from recent news stories that pertain to your class material. Instructors appreciate when students draw connections between textbooks and real life. When you participate, you’ll get more out of the class, and your instructor will know that you are serious about doing a good job.
Jennifer Applin is a freelance writer and will soon be the mother of six young children born within a 5-year span. Her writing focuses on strategies for busy parents to juggle it all.
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