Studying Online

Online learning requires the same amount of time and effort as an in-class course.
The perks of taking online courses are numerous. They offer additional flexibility for busy students, especially for those balancing school with work, family, extra-curricular activities, as well as those taking a course from a remote location. Plus, many courses let you work comfortably at your own pace.
If you’ve never taken one before, you may not know what to expect. Studying online requires time management skills and self-direction. It's left on you to take initiative to read and understand the course content, as well as complete any required assessments on your own.
Tip Sheets
- (PDF file) Keep calm, stay focused: Tips to study at home during COVID-19
- (PDF file) Succeeding in Online Courses
- (PDF file) Top 5 Netiquette Tips
- (PDF file) Six Strategies for Effective Learning
- Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching: Preparing for online classes (opens in new window)
- Continuity of Learning Guide: How to join an online meeting or lecture (opens in new window)
- Continuity of Learning Guide: Collaborating with GSuite (opens in new window)
How to Effectively Study with Online Courses by BYU Independent Study
Working from Home: How to Plan Your Day by Thomas Frank
7 Common Misconceptions About Distance Learning by Learn USI
Use Virtual Applications (VApps) to access software applications from home.
TMU's Virtual Applications (VApps) (opens in new window) provide secure access to licensed software applications from anywhere with an Internet connection. By using VApps, you can use applications without having to install them on your computer.
Applications available with VApps:
- AutoDesk Revit
- MATLAB
- NVivo
- R for Windows (R-Project)
- SPSS Statistics
- SAS Foundation with Enterprise Guide
- VApps Desktop (Includes: ANSYS, Catia, R for Windows, and more.)
- Academic Accommodation Support (AAS) STRIVE program
- PASS Coaching Circles video series (external link, opens in new window)
- Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching: Continuity of Learning (opens in new window)
- Course-specific tip sheets and videos
- LinkedIn Learning via my.torontomu.ca (opens in new window) (under the Apps tab)
- TMU Grade Calculator (opens in new window)
- TMU Library's Assignment Calculator (opens in new window)