Page 64 - STUDENT GUIDE IBAMTAL

Use appropriate style and language for school. When communicating with teachers and

other staff, you should write in full, grammatically correct sentences and with a respectful
tone. Many students are used to a very informal style of writing in chat rooms, blogs, text

messages, and so forth.
Because of the distance, it's tempting for some students to say things out of anger or

frustration that they would never say to a teacher in person. Online teachers are professionals.
Treat them with respect and courtesy.

4. Basic Technical Skills

Online learners need basic technical skills to succeed. These include the ability to create new
documents, use a word processing program, navigate the Internet, and download software.

Most online schools have new student orientation programs. These teach students how to use
the school's learning management system and other online tools, but they typically don't cover

the basics.
If you lack basic computer skills, you may want to find an online tutorial such as the one

available through The Library Network.

You'll also want to check the online school's main website for their hardware and software
requirements. Make sure your own computer meets those requirements.

5. Reading and Writing Skills

Reading and writing are the main ways you'll communicate in an online class. Although some
hard copies of textbooks might be required, you should be comfortable reading a lot of

documents on a computer screen and able to type.
Some tests and quizzes have multiple choice questions, but many of your assignments will

involve writing short or long answers.
If you type less than 25-30 words per minute, it may be worth completing a typing software

program before beginning online classes.

6. Motivation and Independence
To be successful, an online student has to want to succeed. Online learning requires

independence, internal motivation, responsibility, and a certain level of maturity.
Have you given some thought to your own personal reasons for attending school?

Are you determined and self-motivated to succeed in school?
There are many worthwhile reasons to work hard in school. You might want a greater level of

personal satisfaction with your future career. Or perhaps it's personal pride in your

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