Must-Have Tools For Online Learners

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Online learning can be challenging without the right tools. Having access to the right resources can make all the difference in staying focused and connected as an online learner. At Johnson & Wales University College of Professional Studies, ensuring you feel supported from the application process all the way through graduation is our top priority. That’s why we’ve put together a list of must-have tools for online learners to help you succeed on your academic journey.

1. Academic Advisor

At JWU, you are assigned a dedicated academic advisor who will work with you from when you begin class through graduation. They assist you with numerous items from serving as a guide to help you meet your academic goals and teaching you how to navigate the ulearn online classroom, to helping you relate your coursework to career goals and directing you to the appropriate resources at JWU. Their valuable efforts can help you achieve your goals more efficiently.

“Right from the first email I sent them, Jess Rounds and her team of advisors have been phenomenal. Jess’ inside information and guidance about what courses to take and in what order to take them has been invaluable, especially as I began the program.”
~ Jeffrey A.

Female adult student working on her laptop in the foreground shares her screen with a male adult student.

2. jwuLink

All JWU students have access to jwuLink; a platform that acts as a hub for all information regarding JWU. On jwuLink you can find general information from events, calendars and campus info to financial aid, financial planning and IT support services. These general resources are accessible to all students to support them in varying aspects of their academic journey.

As a CPS student, you’ll have access to our dedicated group for online learners comprised of students, faculty and staff. Students can find a wide range of important information under the “resources” tab included in the group which allows easy access to must-have information for students. Additionally, with frequent postings of important dates, academic support resources, interactive and engaging content, students remain updated with the most accurate information.

“JWU does a great job at keeping the community together. After completing my undergraduate degree program, I continued to receive emails about alumni events. As a graduate student, I received information about the clubs and various community activities. All of that information is available to students in one place – on jwuLink.”
~ Emmeline O.

Over the shoulder view of a female adult student seated at a cafe table in a courtyard, working on her laptop.

3. Writing Support

Writing support is another tool that is essential for online learners. Our writing support team helps students in any stage of the writing process, including understanding the assignment and getting started, brainstorming, outlining/organizing, drafting, revising, and citation formatting in both APA and MLA. Our writing coaches provide guidance to help students improve their writing skills to achieve academic success.

A female adult student with a laptop and a second female adult student with a book, seated at a table in front of windows looking out to a courtyard.

4. LinkedIn

Whether you are looking to expand your professional network or are searching for a new career, developing a strong, professional LinkedIn profile can help you as an online learner. LinkedIn offers you the chance to connect with fellow classmates, colleagues and industry professionals. By updating your profile with past and current work experience, university information and regular status updates, you can build a professional network as an online learner.

5. Career Coach Resume Builder

From beginning your job search to looking to transition to a new career, having a strong resume is essential. Utilizing a resume tool, such as the Career Coach Resume Builder, can ensure you have an organized, well-developed resume with the most important information included. Once you create an account for Career Coach, select the Resume Builder tab where you’ll see designated text boxes for the following:

  • Contact Information – This includes your name, email, phone number, address, city, state and postal code
  • Work Experience – Include prior work experience including both full and part-time employment, volunteering and community service experiences
  • Education History – Include information regarding your academic background, such as college or university attended, years enrolled, degree earned and GPA
  • Skills – Include skills that highlight your qualifications for the job
  • Professional Links – This may include your LinkedIn profile, digital portfolio, or published work

Once you’ve completed and entered your information, you can download the resume to include in applications, your LinkedIn profile and to keep on-hand for future opportunities. This valuable tool ensures you include all the essential information while saving you time on putting it together yourself!

Four adult students of mixed genders and ethnicities seated at a picnic table outdoors, viewing a laptop screen.


Whether you are a new or current online learner, these five tools can help you make the most of your academic journey. These resources can help you stay connected, on track, and enhance productivity. Utilize these tools to your advantage to help make the most out of your online education.

Earn An Online Degree From JWU CPS

For more information about enrolling in one of our many online degree programs at Johnson & Wales University College of Professional Studies, complete our Request Info form, call 855-JWU-1881 or email [email protected].

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