In a recent report on EDUCAUSE, Prof. Alan R. Roper summarizes the results of a survey he conducted of adult learners online. In it, he identifies seven practical steps for successful online learning:

1. Develop a time-management strategy
2. Make the most of online discussions
3. Use [the knowledge you gain] or lose it
4. Make questions useful to your learning
5. Stay motivated
6. Communicate the instruction techniques that work
7. Make connections with fellow students

While a lot of this is self-evident, I don’t think it hurts to see it spelled out. And I hope it helps with your learning online!