article provided by the Centre for Distance Education

Take your studies seriously.
Ask your family and friends to promise their support before you start out on your online adventure. This support system will help you get through the times when you will have to sit at your computer for hours at a stretch.

Create a private study space.
Your own space to study and work in peace is necessary. If space is at a premium, hang up curtains between a bed and a desk, so that you can separate sleep from study.

Truly believe in distance learning.
Discuss the merits of the process with whoever will listen. In order to be successful in this new educational environment, you must truly believe in its potential to provide quality education which is equal to, if not better than the traditional face-to-face environment. In discussing the value of online learning, you will reinforce its merits for yourself.

Get involved!
It’s very important that you avoid the feelings of isolation that can come with distance education.  Whenever possible, contribute your ideas, perspective and comments on the subject you are studying, and read those posted by other students. Online conferences and discussions with other students taking the same course as you will give you a larger sense of community.

Log on to your course website every single day.
In addition to using the online resources and checking for marks from your instructors, you will be keen to see who has commented on your postings, and curious to see who has posted something new. If you get into the habit of checking in with the school every day, you’ll find it easier to keep motivated to continue with your assignments.

Use anonymity to your advantage.
When you’re talking to classmates and instructors online, you are free of traditional judgments and stereotypes. There is no need to feel intimidated, and you can take the time you need to think through your ideas and write a response.

Be polite and respectful.
Anonymity is not an excuse for rudeness. These are real people, not imaginary ones. Being polite and respectful is not only common sense, it is absolutely obligatory for a productive and supportive online environment.

Speak up!
Don’t forget – your instructor can’t see you, and won’t know you’re stuck unless you tell him or her. It’s extremely important that you let your instructor know right away if you have any problems.

Apply what you learn.
As you learn new information, make sure to apply it to something on your own. This is especially important if you’ve been doing step-by-step tutorials.Try to apply the steps to your own idea; then try another exercise, without the steps in front of you.