Keeping Your Semester on Track

Staying organized and prepared all semester long can be a challenge for many students. It is important that you determine techniques that work best for you to ensure that you put yourself on the best path to success and achieve your educational goals. To learn more about keeping your semester on track, check out these tips and tools that will help you all year round!

Tips for Keeping on Track

· Log in to WebTycho and review course materials before the first day of class. Print out and read the course syllabus—review the readings and assignment due dates to avoid surprises.

· If you’re taking a hybrid course (one that alternates between online and on-site instruction), review the information Hybrid Courses at UMUC and remember that hybrid classes begin online the first day of the session, not the first day of the on-site classroom meeting.

· Plan to have your textbook(s) by the first day of the session. Access UMUC’s Schedule of Classes to review the list of required textbooks, as well as the classroom location (if applicable) for your course.

· Check in to your online classroom regularly—at least three times a week or more as required. Review the WebTycho Student User Guide to become reacquainted with the classroom if you have taken any time off.

· Plan to spend at least two to three hours per day reading, reviewing, and completing assignments in addition to your time spent in the classroom.

· If you need to adjust your schedule, plan to speak with an academic advisor before adjusting your schedule. Schedule changes can be complicated and may have unintended consequences. Talking with your advisor will ensure that you are continuing on the right path toward your degree.

Course and Program Planning Tools

We encourage you to explore Connect@UMUC, where you’ll find information on course and program planning, friendly reminders based on how many credit hours you have earned, and more—all in one place. You can also download your Spring 2012 Course Planner from the Connect Web site.