Online Class Expectations and Etiquette
By K.P. Wee, ULI English Instructor
With virtually every class being conducted online during this particular time, it can be difficult to adjust to having lessons on your computer. Or you might be thinking, “I don’t know about doing stuff online.” We get it; it’s a big change. But that seems to be where the world is heading, and you don’t want to be left behind!
So, if you’re not sure what the expectations and etiquette are for online classes, well, we’re here to help! So, don’t worry if you’re not used to taking classes online. Read these tips and you’ll be familiar and ready to take that next class — so that it can help you get your next job and reach your dreams! And soon, you’ll be in a job in the career field you’re looking for!
Be on time. Know the start time of the class and make sure you join on time. That means you’ll have to check that the computer or device is working before the class time, so that you are ready to join!
Come prepared. That means it’s important to have finished the assigned readings and/or homework. Hey, without having to commute to and from class, that gives you some time to have those tasks done, right? Just go it!
Mute yourself when others are speaking. Your microphone should be muted so that other students and the teacher cannot hear sounds from your room. This makes the rest of the class be able to listen carefully to the teacher!
Raise your hand or use the chat when you want a turn to speak. When you have a question, type in the chat and wait for your teacher to respond or call on you. If you would like to contribute and answer but it’s not your turn to talk, please wait until the teacher calls on you. Give other students a chance to speak, too! Think about this as teamwork, which is important in any career field you’re in. Cooperate with everybody in the class!
Keep your camera turned on and participate. That also means it’s important to wear appropriate clothing during the class. Look into the camera when it’s your turn to talk. You shouldn’t be eating, either, unless you receive permission from the teacher. It can be very distracting for the teacher and for others who are trying to learn. So, again, teamwork.
Be kind, respectful, and pay attention. Pay attention to your teacher or other students who are speaking. Don’t talk when someone else is talking. Also, don’t chat in the background during the lesson.
Sit in a quiet place with good lighting. To be able to learn well, it’s important to sit in a quiet room with no distractions, and make sure you can see clearly. Turn on your lights on open your curtains to make sure your room has enough lighting. After all, at your workplace, you probably have all these elements too, which help you get your work done. Same, too, for trying to succeed in your class.
To learn more about Universal Learning Institute and our amazing courses — and how we can help you with your next step in your studies and career — contact us at info@uli.ca.