When you undertake to learn online - you are committing to spending considerable time in front of a computer.

It is important that you take measures to ensure that your study environment (the immediate environment surrounding you and your computer) is comfortable.

An ideal room would be quiet, free from distractions and would include:

• Adequate lighting and ventilation.
• A desk large enough to accommodate your computer, monitor, keyboard, mouse pad and peripheral devices (ie. printer). It is preferable to have enough space to keep your books and notes close at hand.
• A copy holder for viewing printed text at eye level.
• A good height and back adjustable chair is essential for correct posture.

Ergonomics

Good posture is directly related to having a good chair, desk and being conscious of how you are seated. Sitting poorly puts stress not only on our muscles, ligaments and joints, but also on our organs.

A good example of proper computer ergonomics

Time Management

Learning online allows you the flexibility to plan your study routine around your other commitments such as work, family and leisure.

Whilst you are not tied to a study routine in the traditional sense of a face to face classroom and you are able to access your course materials at any time, it is still a good idea to construct a study timetable.

If you share a computer with others - a study routine will enable you to negotiate when you require access. Be sure to check and note down when particular assignments are due or if `real-time' activities such as chat sessions are scheduled so you can participate.

Study Routine Checklist:

• Create and maintain a short term and long term `Study timetable'.
• Inform family, friends and workmates of your study needs and requirements.
• Keep in touch with your online teacher to ensure you are up to date and that your teacher is aware of your progress.
• Access the Internet in non-peak times when possible (this is faster because there is less traffic).
• Prioritise your tasks.
• `Buddy' up with fellow learners (email, bulletins and chat).

The TAFE VC provides you with an online learning environment that is similar to a traditional classroom.

Communication

Face to face communication of the classroom is replaced by online communication technologies. Email, Bulletin Boards and chat rooms.

Course materials

Classroom course notes are provided in the form of online learning materials.

Online learning materials are able to include animations, photographs, simulations, video, games and sound. They should be more interactive than paper based materials.

Note: online learning materials are set up by your teacher and as such will vary in their interactivity and use of medias.

Taking Notes

In the TAFE VC you have the ability to make notes online that are automatically cross-referenced to the page you are viewing. Notes are logged and stored. You are able to print them or refer to them anytime online.

Research and Projects

In a classroom setting you may have participated in research projects as an individual or with groups of other students.

The TAFE VC has a number of tools that you can use to coordinate and present work to a class as a group or by yourself. One of the greatest advantages of online learning is that you are connected to the Internet. The range of resources available to you on the Internet is limitless. Take advantage of them by honing your `search' skills.

Assessments and Self Assessments

Online assessments can be varied and interesting. Assessments are usually monitored and graded by your teacher and contribute to your overall results.

Assessments can be in the form of an online quiz, an assignment to be emailed or a online presentation. You could be required to simply participate in a Bulletin Board discussion or monitored chat session. Again - it is up to your teacher.

The TAFE VC also uses Self Assessments. Self Assessments are not graded but give you the opportunity to answer questions and get instant feedback. They are particularly useful for reviewing material.

In the TAFE VC you are able to keep track of your progress through the content and check your results by selecting the "Check my progress" tool. Note that this tool will only made available to you if your teacher has decided to make it available.