Success as an Online Student

This book is a practical guide for any student considering enrollment in, currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an online course. The authors, both with substantial online teaching and learning experience as well as seasoned professionals, deliver concise guidance to make the online learning journey enjoyable, productive, and most of all, worthwhile. Major topics include how to identify the best online program; comparing online with traditional education programs; finding an ideal work-life balance; managing time and staying organized; how to form good habits to maximize your chances for success; getting the most out of an online learning environment; and using your online education to succeed in your career. As the singular guide to success as an online learner, this practical book serves as the essential desk reference for every online student.

Kevin J. Fandl is a legal writing and legal English scholar with extensive publishing and teaching experience. He served as a managing editor for the Foreign Policy Bulletin for three years and as a senior editor on the American University International Law Review for two years. He has published 10 law review articles, several editorials and book reviews, and three books on law and legal writing. He is the director of the Global Legal Education Institute, which develops and delivers on-site training around the world on numerous U.S. law topics, including Legal English and Legal Writing. Fandl earned his Master's degree in International Relations, his Juris Doctor degree in Law from American University, and his Doctorate in Public Policy from George Mason University. He lectures frequently at the Georgetown University Law Center and the American University Washington College of Law, and consults for the World Bank and the Organization of American States. He has taught online at numerous universities since 2004. Following nearly 10 years in federal service, Fandl is currently an Assistant Professor of Legal Studies at Temple University in Philadelphia. Jamie Smith is an attorney who has been teaching since 2006 and teaching online since 2007. During this time she has taught in numerous undergraduate and graduate programs. She is a full-time faculty member at an online university and has previously served as Chair of an online program. Smith received a J.D and an M.A. in International Affairs with a concentration in international law and organizations from George Washington University. She is licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia, has extensive civil litigation and appellate experience, and is a certified mediator.

Chapter 1: Choosing an Online School and Program Chapter 2: What to Expect in an Online Class and How to Prepare Chapter 3: What You Will Miss and How to Make Up For It Chapter 4: Forming Good Habits to Reduce Stress, Find a Work-Life Balance, and Succeed in School Chapter 5: Managing Your Time Effectively Chapter 6: How to Approach Class Work to Maximize Your Chances of Success Chapter 7: Effective Research Techniques in Online Education Chapter 8: Writing for Success Chapter 9: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Chapter 10: Approaching Graduation-Looking for Opportunities Chapter 11: Networking, Leveraging Instructors, and Landing your Next Position Chapter 12: Conclusion Glossary: Common Terms in Online Education