After you enroll you'll get a list of hardware and software requirements for your computer to effectively operate the virtual environment for your online class. Go through each one, making sure your computer system and all software you'll be using is working. Keep the phone number to the school's technical support department handy.
Spend some time getting familiar with the layout of the virtual campus and its features. Create a separate folder on your hard drive for your online class assignments and projects. Make backup copies of this folder in case you have problems with your hard drive.
When taking an online class you're going to interact with others who will have differing viewpoints on the discussion or topic at hand. Use professionalism and standard etiquette when engaging these individuals. It gives you the opportunity to practice diplomacy, which is valuable in the workplace and fosters an environment where the participants are able to learn.
The first day or two you are able to access your online class, review everything an instructor posts. You'll find valuable information in the class objectives section and syllabus. Each instructor has different requirements on how he wants certain things addressed and what format he wants it in. Download all attachments he posts for the class. You may need them for upcoming lessons, and it's good to have them downloaded so you can view them offline while working on your assignments.
Note the way the instructor prefers to be contacted. Keep her contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, written down in case you cannot access your computer.
Never be afraid to ask the instructors questions. Teachers usually look forward to their students asking for help. Be professional when corresponding with your professor or other staff using the virtual campus. Others may be able to access anything you write and post online; therefore, it's best not to attack anyone in your correspondence if you are experiencing a misunderstanding. Companies that offer online distance education usually have some sort of grievance processes in place.