At Distance and Online Education, we are committed to your online journey. This page will provide you tips for online success, a self-check quiz for your online readiness, and online resources. Are you ready for your online journey?
Tips for Online Success!
Self Check
After watching Tips for Online Success, do you think that you are ready to take an online course? Complete our short quiz to see if online learning is right for you. Click on the link below.
Am I Ready For Online Learning?
Skills to Consider
Online learning resources are available and easily accessible on the web. Here we list some essential skills you will need, and provide you additional resources that will help you build success in the online educational environment.

You’ll use your computer to search the web and use a course management system called ICON/Canvas to engage in your course work. Within the online course setting, you will communicate with your instructor and classmates through email and video conferencing, collaborate on projects with classmates, and navigate course features. Having good technical skills will contribute to your online learning success. Below are highlights of the resources for technical skills.
Technical Skill Resources:
Web and Computer Skills:
- Use a computer to do almost anything!
- ITS at the University of Iowa for students
- LinkedIn Learning (university supported training)
Share Documents and Collaborative Tools
Bookmark sites:
How to navigate Canvas:

Study Skill Resources:

Enrolling in an online course at the university level will require you to build skills in critical thinking, communication, writing, leadership and management, and networking. Developing these skills will help you achieve your academic success and provide you a strong transition to your future careers. A variety of academic and learning resources and support are available from the university, such as the Writing Center, the Tutoring Center, and the Center for Student Involvement & Leadership. Additional academic skill-building resources are linked below.
Academic Skill Resources:
Accessing Online Courses from Outside of the United States
There are some locations outside of the United States where University of Iowa students have had difficulty accessing online courses. Please find more information here:
Online Outside of the U.S.