Online Learning for Dummies

Get great grades from a distance

New to online academia and need someone to show you around? You're in the right place―and you're not alone! As more of everything goes online―fueled by tech trends as well as unexpected events like the COVID-19 crisis―it's no surprise that many of us are getting our educations there, too. Online Learning For Dummies is here to welcome you to the gigantic (and gigantically exciting!) virtual campus, and help you get settled in by providing an overview of the endless opportunities offered by distance learning, as well as offering practical advice to make sure you have the right equipment, mindset, and study techniques for success.

In a step-by-step style, this friendly guide takes you from the process of determining what sort of online program is right for you, through applying and enrolling, to building the skills you'll need to succeed. You'll learn how to navigate the common features of the online learning classroom, explore the digital etiquette that will help you get the most out of your instructors and fellow students, and discover how to effectively and professionally present your work. You'll also find out how to develop good online study habits to help you avoid distraction, and how to set aside undisturbed time in between juggling the demands of work, family, and social life.

• Evaluate the latest courses and opportunities
• Make sure you have the correct hardware and software
• Develop your online study skills via best practices
• Avoid digital fatigue

Regardless of age or experience, we can all do with a few pointers on how to get more from the vast array of educational opportunities offered online. This book has them all: Get reading, get online, and get the most from that education you've been dreaming about.

Susan Manning, M.Ed. is the Chief Success Strategist at Credly, where she works with clients to design and implement digital credential systems. Kevin Johnson is the Director of Distance & eLearning at Seattle Central College.