7 How to do well in my classes

To do well in the course, you should read the assigned material before class and re-read previously assigned material as the course progresses. By reading the text before class, you will be better prepared to ask questions and integrate the content of lectures with what was presented in the text. For synchronous classes, be sure to attend all lectures and arrive on time. For asynchronous classes be sure to watch all the video lectures and don’t leave them until the last minute. Each topic builds directly on the previous one. Thus, if you miss one lecture or zip through a video, you run the risk of being completely lost in the next lecture.

7.1 College Workload

WFU on Credit Hours

Wake Forest uses something called a “semester credit hour” to measure the amount of coursework you will be doing. This number reflects the outcomes we expect you to achieve, the mode of instruction, scheduled in-class time, and the amount of outside preparatory work expected for the class.

At a general rule, you can expect to work an average of two hours outside of class for every hour spent in the classroom. So, for example, if you have a three-credit course that meets for three hours a week, you can expect to spend around six hours a week working on that course outside of class. This includes reading, homework, writing, research, and any other coursework required for the class.

If you are taking a standard 15-hour course load, you can expect to spend approximately 15 hours in the classroom and around 30 hours outside of the classroom for an average total of 45 hours of classroom work, study, writing, research, etc. each week. Over the course of a 15-week semester, this adds up to 135 hours of work per semester per course and 675 hours per semester for a full course load.

Remember, this is just an average. Some weeks you may have more work to do than others, and some classes may require more outside work than others. However, understanding the expected workload for each course can help you plan your time and stay on top of your coursework.

7.2 Successful Asynchronous Learning

I’ve created a video highlighting how to be a successful asynchronous learner.

Much of this information comes from Northeastern University’s Tips for Taking Online Classes

7.3 Addition pieces of advice:

  • Read the syllabus.
  • Read all the class announcements.
  • Read the FAQ and post your questions about the class there.
  • Read and follow the instructions for each assignment.
  • Read your professor’s comments on your submissions – especially if you did not get full credit on that submission.
  • Treat canvas messages like email.
  • Read and respond to canvas messages from your professor.
  • Before you send email your professor, try to answer the question yourself by looking at the syllabus, reading the course FAQ, and reading the assignment instructions.
  • Know when assignment deadlines are.
  • If you need additional time or flexibility on an assignment, you communicate with your professor before the deadline passes.