by AJ Walther

Online classes are here to stay. They're easy, they're environmentally friendly, they're economical, and they're extremely effective. But, if you've never taken one, they can also be kind of scary and intimidating. The best way to eliminate your pre-class jitters is to know what you're getting yourself into and be prepared.
Don't Be Afraid To Ask Questions Ahead of Time
Whether your point of contact for training is a registrar, an office assistant, or the actual instructor, you probably have access to someone who can answer all of your questions, so don't be afraid to ask! Also, make sure to check the training company's website for an FAQ page.
Ensure You're Familiar With The Organization's Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies
Speaking of FAQs and asking questions...before you purchase your training, make sure you have read and agreed to the company's cancellation and rescheduling policies. If you can't find them on the company's website, call or email to find out. Things come up. It's always a good idea to make sure you know your options when they do.
Test Your Connection Ahead of Time
Is there anything worse than logging into your online training two minutes before it starts only to find out that your corporate firewall won't let you in at all? Well, probably, but this is pretty high up there on the list of things that are the opposite of fun. While you probably can't predict the future, you CAN prepare for it. Request to do a test of the online meeting space software with the course registrar at least a week prior to the class and then, if necessary, have your IT department look into getting you access. Worst case scenario? Test the connection from your home office and stay home that day (which actually sounds like sort of a best case scenario).
Download or Ensure You've Received All Necessary Training Materials
Some online courses come with materials that will be shipped to your home or office. Find out what, if any, materials are being shipped to you when you sign up for the course. Before confirming your order, ensure you use a shipping address that will accurately route materials to your attention in time for your course. If you're reliant on a corporate mail room, commercial delivery service, or the neighbor's front porch, schedule training to allow time to track down any wayward packages. On receipt of materials, don't just make sure you got something, make sure you got the right thing. It's always possible a mistake was made, but with enough notice almost any mistake can be corrected. Online courses will also often come with digital materials. Make sure you've downloaded or opened all digital materials well in advance to ensure you don't have any issues accessing them.
For Software Classes: Check Your Version
If you're attending an online software and you're hoping to follow-along with the class, it will be impossible if you don't have the correct software. The software on your computer should match the version being taught. And if you're downloading the trial version of a program for class, be aware that most trials expire after 30 days. Since a trial cannot be installed a second time, you'd need to switch to a different computer to use the trial for an additional 30 days.
Login Early
You don't necessarily need to sit glued to your computer screen for an hour before your class starts, but find out how early the instructor will be opening up the meeting space and try to log-in as close to that time as possible. This will give you time to test your audio and get familiar with the training space's features. After you're set-up and ready, you can mute your system and walk away, grab some coffee, or check email until class starts.
Use Dual Monitors
Generally speaking, this isn't an online class requirement. But, if you have access to a second monitor, particularly if you're taking a course that involves interactivity in a new software or operating system, it will certainly make following along much easier. You'll be able to see the application you're learning on one screen and follow what the instructor is doing on the other.
Use a Hands-Free Headset
Free up your hands and improve your audio quality at the same time! Although you can get away with using a microphone and speakers (or your computer's built-in mic and speakers), to get the best online class experience, beg, borrow, or steal a headset. Or, just cough up the dough and buy your own. You can get a decent headset for around $20. That way you will be able to hear the audio and you are most likely to be heard clearly by others. Which brings me to my next point...
Login From a Quiet Place
While a headset with a microphone will help eliminate background noise, nothing will totally block out all noises. Be reasonable about your location while attending your online training. Background noises could distract not only you, but the entire class. Places that should be considered off limits: dog kennels, day cares, cafeterias, and circuses. And if you are in a cubical, be aware that you will be talking to the instructor and other students during the class. Will that disturb those working around you? Another good reason to consider working from home that day.
Close All Personal Desktop Items (For Classes With Screen Sharing)
Some online courses allow for (and benefit from) student screen sharing (showing their screens). The ability to screen share is awesome, but it can quickly turn embarrassing if you have an inappropriate desktop wallpaper image. It can become a security risk if you leave your email or personal information visible. This is easily amendable, of course. Simply close anything you don't want other people to see. And, remember, screen sharing is never a requirement. If you don't want the instructor or other students to see your screen, just say so.
Sign Up Far Enough Ahead of Time So You Have Time to Make Sure All of the Above Can Happen
Be realistic about how much time you'll need to get ready for the course. Ensure that you sign up for your class early enough to allow you to prepare.
Do these steps, and I can just about guarantee you will get the most from your online class experience. And if you have other questions, don't forget the first suggestion above: just ask.
Note: Are you a traditional classroom trainer tasked with taking your act online? Looking for some expert advice on effectively teaching or facilitating an online class (and engaging the online student)? Check out Kevin's upcoming Train the Online Trainer class.
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