STUDY TIPS

Be a Successful Distance Learner

Equip Yourself With the Required Course Materials

1. Make sure you have a syllabus for the course you are taking. Read it carefully; it should answer most of the questions you have about how to proceed through the course.
2. Textbooks, study guides and other course materials may be purchased from the College Bookstore.
3. Preview your textbook and printed materials by scanning the table of contents, major chapter headings and subheadings. If your course has a study guide, read the directions at the beginning of each lesson. These materials are closely correlated with the media portions of the course, and you will be tested on the content of them.
4. Check television reception if you plan to view video programs at home.
5. Arrange for Internet access or an e-mail account if your course requires or offers online participation.

Develop a Study Plan

1. Use the assignment schedule or course calendar from your syllabus to develop a set schedule for each week. Several viewing times may be offered for telecourses, but most students report that they benefit from a regular schedule. Use the alternate viewing times for review and make-up sessions. If your course uses audiotapes or computer assignments, you should also plan a specific time each week to listen or complete the lessons.
2. Plan to complete your textbook and study guide assignments before you view the lessons (unless otherwise stated in your syllabus) or participate in online activities. Develop a regular schedule for completing these assignments.
3. Keep a good set of notes for each unit or topic. By doing this, you will be able to review for examinations without "cramming" everything in at the last minute. Keep note-taking to a minimum while you are viewing a video program or listening to an audiocassette for the first time.

Avoid Interruptions

1. Let your family or roommates know about your study schedule, and ask that you not be disturbed while you are studying.
2. Avoid all interruptions and distractions while you are viewing a video program, listening to a cassette, reading the textbook, working on the computer, or working with the study guide. Take the telephone off the hook if there is no one available to answer it but you.

Recruit a Group of Study Partners

1. Identify one or more classmates with whom you can review assignments, discuss videotapes, and prepare for examinations. Make arrangements to study together by phone, e-mail, or in person.
2. Use the questions at the end of each topic or unit in your study guide or textbook to discuss general concepts of the course. Develop a vocabulary list of important terms. Write definitions in your own words (especially terms you do not fully understand) and review them on a regular basis.
3. Look for ways to relate and apply the knowledge you are gaining. Share your experiences with your study partner.

Ask For Help if You Need It

1. Contact your instructor when you have questions about course content. Instructors are available by phone during the office hours indicated on your syllabus, or you may make an appointment for an on-campus meeting. You may also correspond with your instructor by mail, FAX or e-mail.
2. Attend any available on-campus review/discussion sessions. Even if attendance is at some of them may be optional, these sessions give you an opportunity to have your questions answered and to interact with the instructor and your fellow students.
3. If you want to make up or review a portion of the course, you may view/listen to any of the video programs and audio lessons in the Media Lab. You may also check out the telecourse videotapes to take home (limited availability) from the Library's Reserve Desk, or rent them from RMI.

Home  |  Online Courses  |  Telecourses  |  Student Resources

Contra Costa College Homepage
Last updated: 17 April 2004
For questions about the website and/or the Distance Learning Program, contact Lynda Lawrence, Senior Dean of Instruction.