Succeeding as an Online Student

Succeeding as an Online Student

The following short article is written to provide general advice about online education and degrees, not just information specific to WGU. If you have specific questions about WGU, feel free to inquire online or speak with an enrollment counselor (1-866-225-5948).

In order to succeed in a challenging degree program online, you’ll need to take the initiative to get the most out of your studies. Many working adults take advantage of an online college program to advance in their field or to change careers. The more you put into your online classes, the more skills and knowledge you’ll acquire to help you succeed in the workplace.

One key to making the most of your online education is knowing when — and how — to ask questions. The “when” is easy: Whenever you find something you don’t understand or a topic you would like to know more about, ask someone. How do you find the answers to important questions in an online degree program?

• Ask the Instructor: Your instructor should be available by phone, instant messenger or email during convenient times.
• Ask Other Students: Quality online degree programs provide an opportunity for students to collaborate through chat rooms, forums, or even email. Post your question in the recommended venues and you’ll get not one, but multiple answers. Your question may even help another student, too!
• Find the Answer Yourself: Distance learners are independent learners. If you need the answer to a question right away, use the resources provided to find it. You may even learn things you didn’t know that you didn’t know!