Welcome to the Digital Classroom

Online learning has become a staple in education, so being able to adapt and thrive in this digital learning environment is essential. At UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education we are committed to providing high-quality online courses and programs that fit your lifestyle and equip you with the skills needed for professional success. Whether you're advancing your career, changing paths or simply acquiring new knowledge, our online learning options provide you with an engaging, flexible and interactive educational experience. 

If you’re new to online learning or looking to improve your approach, here are five tips to help you succeed in the online classroom and maximize your potential as an online learner.

1. Online courses are real courses and require active participation.

For the most part, online learning is not much different than learning in a classroom setting. You still have opportunities to connect with your instructors, receive personalized feedback, ask questions, participate in collaborative discussions and connect with peers. 

Synchronous courses, typically offered via Zoom provide, webinar-style learning. These live classes are scheduled on specific days and times, allowing you to have virtual interactions with your instructor and classmates. They offer ways to raise your hand and include a chat feature where you can ask questions. Your instructors may not be able to see you face-to-face, but they are still available to ensure you understand the material and are actively engaged.

We also offer many asynchronous courses and certificate programs, which have pre-produced curriculum that students access via Canvas, our online learning management system. With these courses, you are not required to be online at a specific time and can plan your learning around your schedule. Through a variety of interactive tools, Canvas allows you to connect with your instructor and classmates in an academic online space through discussion forums, live office hours and email. Learn about the Canvas dashboard, navigating a course and accessing assignments in this tutorial video.

The online learning experience was fantastic. It didn't feel like a typical online class. It felt like I was engaged in face-to-face study.” Rajesh Kumar Yadav, Project Management student
 

2. Practice time management and hold yourself accountable.

Although online courses offer a great deal of flexibility, it’s important to set deadlines and stick to them. Avoid overloading yourself with work and be sure to manage your coursework alongside other responsibilities. Dedicate the necessary amount of time each day (or week) to work on your assignments to avoid falling behind or reducing the quality of your work when facing a time crunch. Keep yourself from procrastinating and hold yourself accountable. 

Consider using the calendar in Canvas to create to-do lists or adopt other digital tools or task management apps to schedule specific times for completing assignments, attending webinars, meeting deadlines or carving out dedicated study sessions to help you stay on track. You can even find a way to reward yourself for accomplishing tasks!

The online experience allows you to learn while contributing to your employer and also gives you the necessary freedom to allocate time for study based on your specific needs.” Amaury Borges Miranda, Applied Sensory and Consumer Science student 

3. Create a study space and eliminate distractions.

Set up a quiet, distraction-free space where you can dedicate several hours to work. This can be a home office, a desk or even a dining room table. Research suggests that you should avoid working from your bedroom or couch—keeping the places where you work and rest separate can improve focus and productivity. 

Although it may be tempting to put on Netflix in the background or check your social media feeds during study time, eliminating distractions will ensure you get the most out of the course material. Utilize app blockers, turn off notifications or set your devices to “Do Not Disturb” mode during study and class time to help you stay focused.

AI can be a powerful ally in your educational experience. Here are just a few AI tools you can learn to use responsibly to help you study: 

• Grammarly: Improves writing skills. 
• Chat GPT: Enhances brainstorming and clarifies complex concepts. 
• Notion: Helps you organize and manage notes and tasks. 
• Otter.ai: Converts speech to text. 

Be sure you understand the limitations of generative AI and be aware of misinformation, bias and fake citations before diving in. Always take time to fact check and never input personal information into AI tools. View the UC Davis Student Guide to Generative AI for guidelines.

4. Use online courses as a networking opportunity.

You may not be sitting next to your classmates, but online learning offers plenty of networking opportunities. One of the benefits of online learning is that you can join from anywhere in the world—expanding your networking opportunities across regions and countries. 

Canvas offers tools to help you build and maintain professional relationships with your classmates online. Online courses bring together people from diverse backgrounds, experience levels and career goals, and getting to know your classmates can often lead to valuable industry connections that last beyond the course.

 I greatly appreciated our class interactions on Canvas and the mutual support we offered each other through a private Slack channel. It created a collaborative and supportive learning environment. I established a network of contacts both within the U.S. and internationally. It was exceptional!” Giuliana Ciccarino, Online Master Brewers Certificate Program

5. Have kids or pets? Keep them busy and entertained—away from you.

Family members can be a source of distraction when learning from home. To stay focused, try scheduling structured breaks that align with family activities and plan study sessions during quiet times, such as when children are asleep or engaged in independent activities. 

Invest in long-lasting pet toys and offer your kids engaging, independent entertainment, such as the ones suggested in The New York Times’ best online learning games for kids. You can also involve your family in your learning by asking them to quiz you or including them in practical assignments when possible. This not only helps them feel included but also sets a great example for lifelong learning.

Lifelong learning is essential for professionals to adapt to industry changes, but it’s also about setting an example for others that investing in yourself creates opportunities for growth and excellence.” Camilo Renteria, Construction Management student

Jumping into online education can be challenging, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll likely find the transition easier than expected.

Want more information?

See our online learning resources page for FAQs, technical requirements and more information on our online learning options.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in April 2020 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.