Online Learning Tips For Online Course OnHIV & AIDS: Current Research, Treatments & Resources

By Tom Smith, Ph.D.

 

The following suggestions are offered to provide an effective, enjoyable and fruitful learning experience:

Layout

One of the first things to do is to examine the layout of the entire course and get an overview of where you are going. Identify what text needs to be read or audio/video to listen or watch. How do you want to use your time? Do you want to spend the day on the entire course or break it up into easily digestible parts?

Navigation

Be familiar with how to navigate through the links and posts. Do a brief run through of the material so you know how to get where you want to go. Quickly click on links and sublinks to see how the subject matter is organized.

Required Content

Be clear about what is required material that will be in the post-test and what is reference material that supports what is required and what links are provided for further professional study and to stay up-to-date.

Reference Material

Be aware that reference material can be read at a later time if you are interested in learning more about a particular part of the course. It is not required to take the post-test.

Text

As in any course, it is wise to take notes on the high points of the text to make test-taking easier; especially, if you are reading online and not downloading to print.

Audio

As suggested above, when listening to audio clips, take notes; it really helps you remember what you heard.

Test-taking

The post-test is meant to insure that you learned what is essential in the course. There will not be any true/false statements that reference the minutiae of course content. Generally the flow of the test statements will follow the flow of the course content for easy reference.

Finally, take your time and pay attention without distractions and you will learn well!