Don't Procrastinate.  Procrastination is the biggest student killer there is.  In the online environment, you probably will not have an instructor who reminds you of deadlines as they approach.

Participate!  Whether you are working alone or in a group, contribute your ideas, perspective, and comments on the subject you are studying, and read about those of your classmates.  Your instructor is not the only source of information in your course -- you can gain great insight from your peers and they can learn from you as well.

Log on to your course every day.  Or at least every few days.  Once you get into your course, you may print out everything there.  However, things change!  Assignments are added or dropped.  You may need to participate in an Online Discussion or Chat.  To make sure you keep up with deadlines and changes in the course materials, log on frequently.

Take advantage of your anonymity.  One of the biggest advantages of the online format is that you can pursue your studies without the judgments typical in a traditional classroom. No one can see you.  There are no stereotypes.  You don't have to be affected by raised eyebrows, rolled eyeballs, or people making other non-verbal reactions to your contributions.  You may ask questions without feeling like an idiot!  You don't have to feel intimidated or upstaged by students who can think faster or speak faster than you can, because you can take all the time you need to think your ideas through and compose a response before posting your comments to your class.

Speak up if you are having problems.  Your instructor and the WSU Online staff are not mind-readers.  If you are experiencing a problem, many others in your course are likely to be having the same problem!  If you don't speak up there is no way that anyone will know that something is wrong.  If you don't understand something, chances are several people have the same question.  If another student is able to help you, he/she probably will, and if you are able to explain something to your classmates in need, you will be the hero!  E-mail your instructor as soon as you can if you need assistance with course materials, deadlines, testing, etc.

Read the syllabus on your first visit to the course  You will probably want to print the syllabus for quick and easy reference. Keep a calendar of important dates.  You don't want to miss a quiz, assignment, or test date.  Be sure to check back frequently for changes!