Know the platform you will be using. Most colleges and universities utilize Blackboard. It is a system that allows professors and students to communicate. You can get more information about Blackboard or any other platform you are using from the school you attend. The necessary user names and passwords should be available to you when you sign up for online classes.
Have your student email set up and working. Send a test email to a friend to make sure everything is ready. This email address is going to be the one you are using for your classes. Don't use a personal email address for your classes. Use the supplied email that your school gives to you.
Get the required books. For each course you take in-seat you need textbooks; this is also the case for online classes. You can look up your required materials information on your college website. Purchase these materials before the classes start. You should be diving right into the material with your online classes.
Log in to the platform and make sure that all of your classes are listed. Get used to using the platform by taking an hour to explore all of its features. Make sure you are familiar with the discussion boards; they act as class participation for many courses. Your course material might not be posted until the very day that the class is meant to start.
Make a note of the requirements you will have to fulfill. Note the weekly deadlines of discussion board postings, quizzes, papers and anything else that needs to be done. Once you know what you have to have done each week, you can make out a schedule for yourself.
On the first day of classes, download the syllabus and print it out. Get a folder or binder for each class so that you are organized. Feel free to print out other material that the professor provides, like PowerPoints and rubrics.
Quizzes and tests are going to be taken from the platform. These are normally graded automatically, as they are multiple choice. Note the time that is allotted for each quiz and test.
Every professor has specific instructions for submitting material. Some professors want you to email them directly; others will want you to use a submission form. Also, the name of the file might be specified in the syllabus. Be aware of what each professor wants from you.
Email your professor when you don't understand something or if you have a problem. The sooner you clear up any problems, the sooner you can move on.