Welcome to the Digital Classroom

Online learning has become a staple in education, so being able to adapt and thrive in this digital learning environment is essential. At UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education's International Programs we are committed to providing high-quality online courses and programs that fit your lifestyle and equip you with the skills needed for academic and professional success. Whether you're looking to improve your English-language fluency or build academic skills, our online learning options provide you with an engaging, flexible and interactive educational experience. 

If you’re new to online learning or looking to improve your approach, here are five tips to help you succeed in the online classroom and maximize your potential as an online learner.

1. Online courses are real courses and require active participation.

For the most part, online learning is not much different than learning in a classroom setting. You still have opportunities to connect with your instructors, receive personalized feedback, ask questions, participate in collaborative discussions and connect with peers. 

Synchronous courses, typically offered via Zoom provide, webinar-style learning. These live classes are scheduled on specific days and times, allowing you to have virtual interactions with your instructor and classmates. They offer ways to raise your hand and include a chat feature where you can ask questions. Your instructors may not be able to see you face-to-face, but they are still available to ensure you understand the material and are actively engaged.

We also offer many asynchronous courses and certificate programs, which have pre-produced curriculum that students access via Canvas, our online learning management system. With these courses, you are not required to be online at a specific time and can plan your learning around your schedule. Through a variety of interactive tools, Canvas allows you to connect with your instructor and classmates in an academic online space through discussion forums, live office hours and email. Learn about the Canvas dashboard, navigating a course and accessing assignments in this tutorial video.

2. Practice time management and hold yourself accountable.

Although online courses offer a great deal of flexibility, it’s important to set deadlines and stick to them. Avoid overloading yourself with work and be sure to manage your coursework alongside other responsibilities. Dedicate the necessary amount of time each day (or week) to work on your assignments to avoid falling behind or reducing the quality of your work when facing a time crunch. Keep yourself from procrastinating and hold yourself accountable. 

Consider using the calendar in Canvas to create to-do lists or adopt other digital tools or task management apps to schedule specific times for completing assignments, attending webinars, meeting deadlines or carving out dedicated study sessions to help you stay on track. You can even find a way to reward yourself for accomplishing tasks!

3. Create a study space and eliminate distractions.

Set up a quiet, distraction-free space where you can dedicate several hours to work. This can be a home office, a desk or even a dining room table. Research suggests that you should avoid working from your bedroom or couch—keeping the places where you work and rest separate can improve focus and productivity. 

Although it may be tempting to put on Netflix in the background or check your social media feeds during study time, eliminating distractions will ensure you get the most out of the course material. Utilize app blockers, turn off notifications or set your devices to “Do Not Disturb” mode during study and class time to help you stay focused.

AI can be a powerful ally in your educational experience. Here are just a few AI tools you can learn to use responsibly to help you study: 

• Grammarly: Improves writing skills. 
• Chat GPT: Enhances brainstorming and clarifies complex concepts. 
• Notion: Helps you organize and manage notes and tasks. 
• Otter.ai: Converts speech to text. 

Be sure you understand the limitations of generative AI and be aware of misinformation, bias and fake citations before diving in. Always take time to fact check and never input personal information into AI tools. View the UC Davis Student Guide to Generative AI for guidelines.

4. Use online courses as a networking opportunity.

You may not be sitting next to your classmates, but online learning offers plenty of opportunities to connect with others. One of the benefits of online learning is that you can join from anywhere in the world—expanding your networking opportunities across regions and countries. 

Canvas offers tools to help you build and maintain relationships with your classmates online. Online courses bring together people from diverse backgrounds, experience levels and academic goals, and getting to know your classmates can often lead to valuable connections that last beyond the course.

Our Remote Conversation Club and other virtual activities run by our student assistants are great ways to socialize and interact with your classmates. Plus, interacting with your classmates is an excellent way to practice your English language skills and have fun with your fellow students. 

5. Have kids, pets or roommates? Keep them busy and entertained—away from you.

Family members, roommates and even pets can be a source of distraction when learning from home. To stay focused, try scheduling structured breaks and plan study sessions during quiet times. You can also involve your friends and family in your learning by asking them to quiz you or including them in practical assignments when possible. 

Jumping into online education can be challenging, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll likely find the transition easier than expected.

Questions? Email us at [email protected] with questions.