I recently came across an article on elearningindustry.com describing five problems that learners face when getting started in their first online classes. I thought it was pretty accurate to my own experience in beginning an online degree program. The five problems are described as: Adaptability Struggle. Switching from traditional classroom and face to face instructor training to computer-based training in a virtual classroom makes the learning experience entirely different for students. Their resistance to change doesn’t allow them to adapt to the online learning environment, whereas it takes time for them to get accustomed to Course Management Systems (CMS) and the methods of computer-based education. While passive listening and notes taking are expected in a traditional classroom, online discussions or creating a web page demand springing into action. Students with a “traditional” mindset find it difficult to adapt; however, they need to accept the...