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5 Tips for success in this online course

1. Be an active participant. Sense of community in an online course is just as important as in a face to face classroom. I believe it is more important, because we depend on our written words to reflect, collaborate and communicate. The discussion forums and group activities serve to enhance and advance the content we are learning. Sounds heavy, but studies support this. Follow the rules of “Netiquette” (referenced in Module 1) for a positive and open environment. Be respectful of each other’s thoughts and opinions and if you are compelled to disagree, that is OK; we need to hear all perspectives. Keep the discussion forums focused on the topic, and feel free to share in the ‘talk with your classmates’ forum found at the top of the homepage of the course.
2. Keep up with readings, discussions and assignments, and adhere to the deadlines. Falling behind in an asynchronous online learning environment will cause you unnecessary frustration and stress. I have seen it happen and it has happened to me. For your own sake, do not do it! This course is comparable to a college-level course and there are graded assignments so participants can earn CEU credits. At first, it may seem like there is a lot of work to do, but really it is not if you manage your time wisely.  By signing on every day or every other day and devoting 5-7 hours each week, you should be able to keep up with ease. In the rare event of a personal issue or emergency, contact me so we can agree on a reasonable time extension if needed. 
3. Look ahead at each module as soon as it opens every Thursday (or Wednesday). We have 5 modules (units) of study, all which build on each other. This is why they are not all open at once. When a module becomes available, you will have 5-6 days to preview and read the materials before starting any assignments.
4. Keep in touch- If you need support or guidance, do not fade into the background. You invested in this course, and it will pay off for you in the long run. I had a couple of students last summer who were convinced that this course was not for them. I thought otherwise, and after a few long talks they stayed with us and were thankful they did!
5. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of this course and all that we have to offer each other….and have fun! We all share a common interest, a desire to maintain the connection we have to our environment, and to share our enthusiasm with others through garden–based learning.  I am confident you will leave this course with a few new friends and a bundle of wonderful resources to use in your GBL program.