Online College Advice by Mary Mary

--- online college advice ---

Dear Mary Mary,

I am taking an online anatomy course and the instructor is really nice, but he gives us so much work that I can't keep up.

My friends, who are all taking the same course in the real world don't spend nearly the time I do with all the homework and 'extra projects'.

Is there anything I can do to let this instructor know he's going overboard with the assignments? As long as I test well, proving I know and understand the subject -- what's with all the homework?

Help! I've got no life!
Cory

Ooh. Ouch. Some instructors, especially if they are new to online teaching, want to make sure they are doing the best job possible - so they really rev up the workload. Or, they may simply be doing their job.

Anatomy is a complicated subject to teach, even in the real world. Professors have a number of instructional goals they are required to meet - he may simply be following the recommended protocol.

At any rate, it's not going to help very much if only one student (you!) says, "Hey, Dude! Lighten up." You've got to talk to your other online classmates and see if they feel the same way about the too heavy workload.

If your classmates are not having trouble with it - then... er, it might just be you. In which case, don't feel bad, everyone has at least one subject that feels like a personal flogging. Get help. It's that simple.

If everyone in the class is struggling -- then it's time for everyone to get together and present a (very nice, very polite, very professional) unified 'complaint' (do not whine!) to the professor.

The key here is getting the support of your fellow classmates and making your request in a non-threatening, non-emo, analytical manner, backed with real statistics.

This presentation of your 'complaint', or better yet - your 'request', should not feel as if you are ganging up on your professor; rather you should say something like - "we are all having trouble here, and we hope you have an idea that will help us out." Leave any changes up to him - he is the professional. You are the student. Don't forget that.

One credit is equal to three hours of work per week. If the class is a four credit class then you should be working at least 12 hours per week on it.

Are you actually spending twelve hours per week on the coursework, or does it only seem that way to you?

Keep a time sheet, I think you'll be surprised to find out, you are NOT working the number of hours you thought you were. Each of your classmates should tally up their work time as well. If it truly turns out that on average - you and your classmates - are working many more hours than the credits deem - you can then present a strong case, backed with statistics, to your professor.

Don't forget your professor is working just as hard as you are, grading all that work. Maybe even harder.

Be polite, be respectful and stick to the facts of your case. Your professor will respond positively to a professional, well thought out, well researched request - whining or emotional accusations will only annoy him.

Best wishes! Ciao!

Mary Mary