​Online classes can be very appealing for working folks and others who have barriers to getting to a classroom or prefer this modality. This also means that you must be very self-motivated to take an online class.

It's not for everyone and that's okay!  If you decide to proceed, please ready yourself for engagement in the content and in active interaction with your fellow students.

EXPECTATIONS & TIPS
for Online Course Success
  •  ."Read through the entire Orientation & Instructions Module as well as exploring sociologyonline.weebly.com. You can return to these instructions repeatedly throughout the semester - they have been written to give you all the information that you need to be successful.
  • Complete your Canvas profile including a photo of yourself for your Avatar. I prefer a traditional headshot like the one of me posted above, with no one else in the photo. Please also make sure that the photo is not sideways.
  • Sign into Canvas daily and read ALL announcements - you are responsible for this information and it is the main vehicle I use to communicate with the entire class. It only takes a few minutes!  If you were taking a campus class you would be devoting three hours a week (6 hours in the case of an eight week semester and even more intense for a 5 or 6-week course!)  + outside study. While it is appealing to use the Canvas app on your phone to do the work, I recommend you use it for "reading" content only. It is very difficult to write discussion posts on your phone and be able to competently edit them.  Desktops/laptops are preferred.
  • I sign in to Canvas multiple times each day (but take Sundays "off').  I am present throughout the entire course, I write my announcements in real time, and always respond within 12-24 hours to your direct messages.
  • Try and find answers to course procedural questions (due dates, etc.) in the information provided to you in the Orientation & Instructions Module on Canvas. If you simply cannot find an answer after these attempts, then send me a message through Canvas.
  • Passing this class is your responsibility and as an online class, everything is very TIME DEPENDENT.  You MUST put in the work. No excuses.  
  • Exams and late work cannot be made up. If you are unable to keep up with the demands of the class you might consider dropping - I won't take it personally.
  • Don't wait until the last minute to do an EXAM, DISCUSSION POST, ETC. - always take into account that there may be temporary technical problems. Most assignments and exams open and close with a "multi-day window." Once you start the exam you MUST complete it in the time allotted. You cannot stop and go back later.
  • Discussion posts should be brief but of high quality - not rushed and superficial. Please read the instruction in the Orientation & Instructions Module on Canvas.

THANK YOU FOR READING THIS!

HELPFUL TIPS FROM 
​FORMER ONLINE STUDENTS

One of the best ways to get good at anything is to hear from those who have already "done it." I asked some of my top-performing students to share their tips. 

​I want you to be successful in my course!