The first assignment in most courses will ask you to introduce yourself to the instructor and possibly the rest of the class. This is usually accomplished online in discussion forums, or by creating a home page online, or on voice mail, or by mail. Other typical first assignments include reading assignments, loading software, and joining a class discussion.

Whatever the first assignment is, it is important to begin promptly. You should submit your first required assignment as soon as possible but definitely within the first 3 weeks of your enrollment. Students who begin immediately and keep working on their assignments tend to finish courses successfully.