Getting started with online learning
Get started with online learning at the University of Waikato. Learn how to connect with classmates, manage time, write effectively, and participate in online discussions.
This series is a blog and video podcast resource designed to provide students with a first port of call when studying in a NET or BLK paper.
Getting started
Online learning: Where do I start?
A student's guide: Getting underway with your first online/blended class at Waikato.
Connecting with classmates and helping each other online
When you are feeling all alone, there are other students in the course feeling the same way. See information about how to stay in contact, and good ways of helping each other.
Getting help
Where to get help: Student Learning
Help with your assignments on campus or at a distance (video or written comment)
Where to get more help: University Library
Visit the Library, online or in person, and 'Chat with a Librarian" for search and referencing advice.
There are many pages of help files covering the different technology that you might encounter including Moodle, Google, Turnitin (Tii), Mahara (ePortfolio), (and there are help pages for everyday technology like Powerpoint, Excel, Word etc )
The skills you need (and how to develop them)
6 tips for managing your time and managing yourself online
Asynchronous online discussions
How to learn from your teachers and your classmates in online discussions (NB: asynchronous means online written discussions happening over a pre-set period of time)
Do you feel like it's all been said already? We have advice for you.
Three ways of showing leadership online. Remember, your contribution is positive and helpful.
You know what your teachers expect of you, and what you can expect of them, and of your classmates.
Effective communication online
Writing clearly, and disagreeing constructively. We expect participants to maintain a high standard of courtesy, respect and language. This page explains how to participate in forum discussions.
Student Learning
In relation to readings, these should be completed regularly in order to construct familiarity with theory and diverse perspectives. When you refer to readings, avoid lengthy direct quotes in discussion. Instead, you might discuss readings by paraphrasing the key ideas and applying your own thinking to these.