While online courses were once the exception, they are now the norm. The flexibility is real, as is the responsibility. Below are the key characteristics and habits of successful online learners, organized to help you thrive in your online program or course at UConn.

Before You Begin

Be Self‑Motivated and Driven.

• Read the syllabus carefully and obtain all the required materials before the course begins.
• Set up a dedicated study space that’s comfortable, free of frequent distractions, and has reliable internet.
• Schedule consistent “course‑work time” into your weekly routine. If a typical 3‑credit course requires ~9–12 hours/week, then plan accordingly.
• Log in to your course early and regularly so you aren’t scrambling later.

Tech‑Readiness & Environment

• Ensure your device, webcam, microphone (if needed), and internet connection are working before key assignments begin.
• Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and any tools your instructor will use (video conferencing, collaborative docs, online proctoring).
• Keep backups of your files and ensure course submission deadlines are clearly marked in your calendar.

During the Course

Stay Consistent & Engaged.

• Log in frequently (daily if possible) and review announcements, upcoming deadlines, and discussion posts.
• Set weekly goals and stick to them.
• Submit coursework on time as you would in an in‑person course.

Apply Good Writing & Communication Skills.

• Much of your coursework will be text‑based: papers, essays, online discussions, group presentations or projects.
• Make sure you express yourself clearly, proofread, and follow the citation/style guidelines for your discipline.
• If you need assistance, you may access UConn’s Writing Center services (online or in person).

Have a Collaborative Mindset.

• Online doesn’t mean being alone. Many courses will include group work, peer reviews, discussion forums, or shared documents.
• Reach out to classmates, form study groups, ask questions, and engage in active online discussion. This has been shown to improve learning and performance.

Seek Help When You Need It & Know Where to Find It.

• Don’t wait until you’re frustrated: if you don’t understand a concept, technical tool, or course component, reach out early.
• Your instructor is available; so are UConn’s tech‑support desk, tutoring centers, accessibility services, and the library.

Expectations of Technology & Integrity

Be Flexible to Learn and Use New Technologies.

• Some courses may require video meetings, proctored exams, Google Docs/Sheets collaboration, or multimedia submissions.
• These tools are intentionally chosen to support the learning outcomes.
• If you are new to a tool, give yourself time to learn and test it early.

Expect to Be Held to High Academic Standards.

• As an online student at UConn, you are held to the same academic standards as any on‑campus student.
• UConn’s policies on academic, scholarly, and professional integrity apply to online coursework as well.
• Academic, Scholarly & Professional Integrity and Misconduct (ASPIM) Policy
• Appendix A: Academic Integrity in Undergraduate Education & Research

Getting Started Checklist

• Read the syllabus and highlight all due dates and major milestones.
• Confirm that you can log into the LMS and access all modules.
• Test any required tools (video conferencing, discussion forum, file upload).
• Block regular study/study‑space times in your calendar.
• Introduce yourself in the course forum and connect with peers.
• Identify contacts: instructor, tech support, writing center, tutoring center.
• Confirm that you understand the academic integrity policy and your responsibilities.

Why These Expectations Matter

Because online courses offer flexibility, they also require greater personal responsibility. Students who proactively manage their time, engage consistently, write clearly, collaborate, use available supports, and uphold integrity tend to succeed at higher rates. These habits also align with professional and lifelong‑learning skills: self‑management, clear communication, teamwork, technological adaptability, and ethical behavior. 

You’re embarking on a flexible and powerful learning path. At UConn, you’ll be part of a community that holds online learners to the same quality and standards as in‑person students while benefiting from your own schedule, space, and pace. By following the behaviors above and leveraging resources offered, you can set yourself up for success.