Online Learning Tips and Strategies

Prepare for Success

Mason Online courses follow the same academic standards as on-campus courses. You’ll use Canvas and other technologies to access your syllabus, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and communicate with your instructor. These tips can help you prepare, stay organized, and meet course expectations.

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What to Expect

Online courses require regular participation, time management, and comfort with digital tools. You should expect to:

Set and follow a weekly schedule to meet assignment deadlines
Log in regularly throughout each each week to stay connected
Complete assignments, quizzes, exams and other assignments

Communicating in Online Courses

Most communication in online courses happens in writing. Clear, respectful communication matters.

Ask questions early—don’t wait until a deadline
Be specific when emailing instructors or posting in forums
Read your messages before you send them
Use subject lines that reflect the message topic
Avoid typing in all caps, overusing bold, or relying on emojis

Managing Your Time

You’ll need to plan your time carefully. Here’s what we recommend:

Treat the course like a job—set weekly study times and stick to them
Log in at least 3–4 days a week
Expect to spend 12–15 hours per week per course
Use a calendar to track deadlines
Start assignments early and work in short, regular sessions

Setting Up Your Space

Pick a place where you can focus and minimize distractions. A good setup includes:

A reliable internet connection
A desk or table with room to work
A comfortable chair and good lighting
Headphones, if your environment is noisy

Technology Readiness

Make sure your computer, internet, and browser meet course requirements before the term begins. You’ll need:

A computer that meets Mason’s technical specs
Reliable high-speed internet
A backup plan in case of outages or immediate tech issues

Staying Connected to Mason

You’re responsible for knowing university deadlines and policies, even if you’re never on campus. Be sure to check:

You’ll receive official communication via your Mason email and Patriot Web account.

Support Services

Online students have access to the same academic and student support services as on-campus students, including:

Library Services – Online databases and research help
Writing Center – Virtual writing support
Academic Advising – Degree planning and check-ins
Career Services – Job search tools, résumé help, and more

Visit the FAQs for common questions about getting started.

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