Surviving Compressed Classes

Many summer classes are in a time period shorter than the normal semester-length class.    There are advantages and disadvantages to this format:

PROS:

You can focus on only one or two classes.  You are not spreading out your study time over four or five different subject areas.

The class usually meets every day, so repetition is built in.

Even while working very hard, you know it is for a brief time – you can see the end.

CONS:

You have to stay on top of your studying; you cannot take even one day off.

There exams and/or assignments scheduled almost weekly.

You are learning a semester’s worth of information in a short period of time, so there is a lot to learn.

You have to do a semester’s worth of studying in a short period of time.

Here are some TIPS for SUCCESS:

Mentally prepare for the work.  Plan on studying every day.

After each class, learn the information from that day and also review all of the previous information.

Don’t miss any classes.

Be sure to keep track of assignment and exam dates.

Schedule a fun activity for when the class is over so you have something to look forward to.

Tips for On-line Classes

Many students take summer classes on-line.  This is a great way be able to work and also pick up a few credits.  There are many varieties of on-line courses; some have taped lectures, some are all reading, some require some face-to-face time...the varieties are endless.  You, as the learner, have to be flexible and adapt your learning strategies to the situation.  There are a few specific tips for on-line success:

• Don’t think the course will be easier because it is on-line.  Instead of regular access to a professor in a classroom setting, much of the learning will be on your own.
• Time management is crucial to your success in this situation.  The tendency is to “put off the work.”   Treat the course just like a regularly scheduled course.  Have specific times when you will do the work.  Get into this habit or routine and stick with it until the course is over. 
• Be sure to monitor your understanding and learning.  Don’t let any difficulties or unclear information go.  Contact the professor and ask questions.  Other students in the class are also a resource.  There will be some sort of discussion capability, so take advantage of that.
• Don’t assume that because the quizzes and exams will be on-line that you will have time to look up the answers.  Usually there is a very tight time limit starting when you log on to the exam, so you have to study and prepare just as you would for a regular classroom exam.  You can refer to notes, so a comprehensive review chart would be very helpful.
• Be sure to utilize all of your learning and study strategies.  Again – remember that you are the main one responsible for your own learning and for your completion of the assignments.

Many students thrive in on-line classes.  The work can flexible and fit into varied schedules.   As long as your have sufficient motivation, time management and learning skills you will do well!