Essential Digital Learning Tools for Online Degree Success

If you’re considering an online degree, getting comfortable with the right digital tools lets you focus on learning instead of worrying about logistics.

By now, the value of online education is clear. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, more than 53% of students in the U.S. were enrolled in distance learning, or online, courses as of 2022. That number continues to rise as learners prioritize flexibility and career advancement. ¹

For many students, studying online turns a college degree into a real possibility when traditional on-campus programs aren’t an option. With the right digital tools, online learning offers greater flexibility and accessibility, helping you to balance school with work and family commitments.

At NMSU Global Campus, learners have access to the same high-quality education and support services as on-campus students — all delivered through a dynamic digital environment. From learning management systems and video conferencing to study apps and collaboration tools, these resources are designed to set you up for success.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the essential digital learning tools every online student should know — and show how they create a smoother, more rewarding online learning experience.

Why Digital Tools Matter in Online Learning

Succeeding in an online degree program takes more than logging in and completing assignments. It requires the right digital tools to keep you organized, connected, and confident. These resources form the backbone of the online learning experience. They turn flexibility into a practical reality for university students balancing school with work, family, or other responsibilities.

Digital tools matter to online students because they:

• Keep you organized: Centralizing your assignments, deadlines, and grades in one place helps students manage busy schedules with less stress.
• Make human connection possible: Video calls, discussion boards, and chat platforms ensure that you can engage with professors and classmates just as meaningfully as you would in a traditional classroom.
• Support your lifestyle: With mobile access and cloud storage, online coursework fits more easily into your day, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go.
• Expand your resources: Digital libraries, research databases, and study apps provide instant access to the academic information you need to succeed.

When used effectively, these tools support online learning while helping students build confidence, develop independence, and thrive in a flexible, modern academic environment.

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

A learning management system, or LMS, is the backbone of online education. It’s the platform where students access course materials, submit assignments, track grades, and communicate with professors and classmates. In many ways, the LMS is the online equivalent of a campus, a single place where everything comes together to support learning as you work toward your degree.

At NMSU Global Campus, that hub is Canvas, a platform known for being intuitive, mobile-friendly, and built to make online learning seamless. Unlike older systems that can feel clunky or confusing, Canvas is designed with students in mind; this helps you focus less on navigating technology and more on reaching your academic goals.

Why Canvas works well for online students at NMSU Global Campus:

• Centralized learning: Assignments, lectures, grades, and resources are all in one place.
• Ease of use: A clean, intuitive design makes it simple to navigate, even for first-time online learners.
• Communication tools: Built-in messaging, announcements, and discussion boards keep students connected to professors and peers.
• Mobile phone and tablet accessibility: The Canvas app allows students to check deadlines, view content, and participate in discussions on the go. However, mobile devices should be used for quick check-ins only. It’s strongly recommended that quizzes, exams, and assignments be completed on a full browser for proper functionality.
• Browser compatibility: For the best user experience, it’s recommended to access Canvas using Chrome or Firefox, as other browsers may not fully support all features. See more on apps and technology requirements.
• Integration with other tools: Canvas connects seamlessly with video conferencing, cloud storage, and other apps used throughout NMSU Global Campus degree programs.

Tips for using Canvas effectively as an online atudent:

Think of Canvas as your personal command center: once you know how to use it well, everything from assignments to communication feels more manageable.

• Log in daily: Even if you don’t have assignments due, checking in helps you stay on top of assignment deadlines and important announcements from your professors.
• Use the calendar view: Canvas automatically populates assignment due dates across courses, making it easy to plan ahead.
• Download the Canvas mobile app: Stay connected to your coursework no matter where you are.
• Set notifications: Customize alerts for grades, messages, or new assignments so nothing slips through the cracks. This community post from Instructure (the company behind Canvas) shows you how to configure your notification settings step by step.
• Explore early: Spend time navigating your Canvas dashboard at the start of the semester so you feel comfortable before major assignments are due.

Video Conferencing Platforms

Building connections is a key part of any college experience, and for online students, video conferencing is what makes that possible. Tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams give you the chance to interact with professors and classmates in real time, bringing the classroom experience directly to your screen.

At NMSU Global Campus, Zoom is the primary platform used for live lectures, faculty office hours, and interactive sessions. It’s also integrated with Canvas, so you can join class meetings or review recordings right from your course dashboard.

How video conferencing supports online student success:

• Live engagement: Attend real-time lectures, ask questions during Q&A, and participate in discussions.
• Community building: Breakout rooms allow for small-group collaboration, mirroring the teamwork of an in-person classroom.
• Faculty access: Virtual office hours make it easy to connect with instructors for one-on-one support.
• Collaboration: Share screens, present projects, and work with peers on assignments, no matter where you are.
• Flexibility: Recorded sessions give you the option to revisit material if you need to study or if your schedule requires catching up later.

Zoom tips for online students at NMSU Global Campus:

• Test your audio and video before each session to avoid disruptions.
• Use the “raise hand” feature or chat to participate without interrupting.
• Join from a quiet, well-lit space when possible to improve focus and visibility.
• Take advantage of recorded sessions for review or if you can’t attend live.

Video conferencing at NMSU Global is about convenience and building meaningful connections that make your online degree feel personal and engaging.

Cloud Storage and File Sharing

In an online degree program, keeping your work safe and accessible is essential. Cloud storage makes it possible to save assignments, share files, and collaborate with classmates without worrying about losing important documents. Instead of relying on a single device, cloud tools keep everything backed up and available anywhere you log in.

At NMSU Global Campus, students have access to Microsoft OneDrive as part of New Mexico State University’s Microsoft 365 suite. OneDrive integrates seamlessly with Canvas and Microsoft Teams, making it simple to store assignments, collaborate on projects, and access materials from multiple devices.

Why cloud storage matters for online students:

• Collaboration: Share documents and work on group projects in real time.
• Security: Automatic backup protects your work from being lost due to device issues.
• Flexibility: Access your files from home, work, or while traveling.
• Integration: Connects with Canvas and Microsoft tools to streamline your coursework.

Tips for using OneDrive effectively at NMSU Global Campus:

By getting comfortable with cloud storage, NMSU Global Campus students can reduce stress, simplify collaboration, and keep their coursework organized and secure throughout their degree.

• Organize files by course or semester to keep materials easy to find.
• Use shared folders for group projects so everyone can contribute in one place.
• Enable automatic syncing so your documents update across all devices.
• Take advantage of version history to restore earlier drafts if needed.

Digital Note-Taking and Study Apps

Taking clear notes is one of the most effective ways to stay engaged in class and prepare for exams. Digital note-taking tools make this process easier by keeping everything organized, searchable, and accessible across devices. Instead of juggling paper notebooks, students can build a streamlined system that supports both learning and long-term retention.

At NMSU Global Campus, students have access to Microsoft OneNote through Microsoft 365. OneNote syncs automatically, works across devices, and integrates multimedia like images, links, and voice recordings. It’s especially helpful for organizing notes by course and staying prepared for exams.

Popular note-taking tools for online learners:

• Microsoft OneNote (provided at NMSU): Great for organization, syncing, and multimedia notes.
• Evernote: Known for its ability to capture and organize content from the web.
• Notion: A flexible app for combining notes, tasks, and study guides in one workspace.
• GoodNotes/Notability (best on iPad): Ideal for handwritten digital notes and annotations.²

Tips for smarter digital note-taking:

• Create separate notebooks for each class to avoid clutter.
• Use highlighting, tagging, or color coding to make key points stand out.
• Sync across devices so notes are always available — wherever you study.
• Build study guides by combining lecture notes with your own reflections.

AI Tools in Online Learning

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is everywhere. And for online students, it can be a powerful partner in managing coursework. From organizing notes to polishing writing, AI tools can help save time, simplify complex concepts, and keep you on track with your studies. Many students use AI to brainstorm essay ideas, summarize long readings, or create study aids like flashcards and quizzes. These tools can make learning more efficient and even boost confidence when you’re tackling new material.

But with these opportunities come responsibilities. Relying too heavily on AI, or using it to generate work you submit as your own, may undermine your learning and violate academic integrity policies. The real value of AI in education is how it helps students build practical skills and confidence while supporting long-term success. The key is learning how to use these tools thoughtfully, so they strengthen your skills rather than weaken them.

How AI tools can support online students:

• Research support: Summarize long articles, suggest keywords, or outline complex topics for easier review.
• Writing assistance: Tools like Grammarly use AI to flag grammar issues, improve clarity, and refine tone. It’s available free to NMSU Global Campus students when you sign up with your NMSU email address.
• Study help: AI flashcard apps (like Quizlet’s AI-powered features) can generate practice questions and quizzes from your notes.
• Time management: AI-driven planners can help optimize study schedules based on deadlines and personal habits.

Smart ways to use AI in your online coursework:

• Avoid plagiarism: Submitting AI-generated work as your own can violate academic integrity policies and put your degree at risk. AI should never replace your original ideas or analysis. Instead, use it to spark brainstorming, check grammar, or organize your thoughts. Make sure the final work reflects your own voice and understanding.
• Verify accuracy: AI tools can make mistakes or provide outdated information. Double-check facts and citations with reliable academic sources.
• Use as a supplement, not a substitute: AI should support your learning, not replace the critical thinking and analysis your professors expect.
• Be transparent: If you use AI tools for brainstorming or grammar checks, follow your instructor’s guidelines on AI disclosure.

Tips for responsible AI use at NMSU Global Campus:

• Use AI for drafting ideas, not final submissions.
• Rely on NMSU Global Campus resources (including New Mexico State University’s digital library) for verified academic research.
• Ask professors when you’re unsure about what’s acceptable, as each course may have different expectations.

When used thoughtfully, AI tools can be a powerful ally in online learning. The key is to treat them as assistants that help you learn more efficiently, not as shortcuts that bypass the learning process.

Project and Time Management Tools

Balancing coursework with work and personal responsibilities is one of the biggest challenges online students face. Time management and project planning tools help break tasks into smaller steps, keep deadlines visible, and reduce last-minute stress.

NMSU Global Campus students can use Microsoft Outlook Calendar and Planner (included with Microsoft 365) to stay organized. These tools integrate directly with Canvas and email, making it easy to manage due dates and plan study time.

Outside tools many online students rely on include:

• Trello: A simple board-style project management app for tracking tasks visually.
• Asana: Ideal for group projects or managing multiple responsibilities.
• Todoist: A streamlined task list app that makes it easy to prioritize daily goals.
• Google Calendar: Popular for setting reminders and blocking study time.

Tips for staying organized as an online student:

• At the start of each course, enter all assignment due dates into your calendar.
• Break large projects into smaller, trackable milestones.
• Schedule recurring weekly “study blocks” to build consistent habits.
• Use reminders and notifications to stay ahead of deadlines.

Collaboration and Communication Tools

Even though classes are online, teamwork and peer support remain vital parts of the college experience. Collaboration tools help students connect with classmates, exchange ideas, and complete group projects efficiently.

At NMSU Global Campus, students use Microsoft Teams and Canvas discussion boards. Teams is particularly useful for group projects: offering chat, file sharing, and video call features in one place. Canvas boards foster academic discussion and peer-to-peer learning.

Other widely used collaboration tools for online students include:

• Slack: A team communication app with channels for organizing group work.
• Discord: Popular for informal study groups and peer support communities.
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides): Free tools for collaborating on documents in real time.
• GroupMe: A simple app for quick group messaging and reminders.

Tips for collaborating effectively in online courses:

• Set expectations with classmates early on for group roles and deadlines.
• Use shared folders or documents to keep resources in one place.
• Stay active in Canvas discussions; it helps build relationships with peers.
• Treat online teamwork as practice for professional collaboration after graduation.

Tips for Choosing and Using Tools Wisely

With so many apps and platforms available, it’s easy for online students to feel like they need to use everything at once. The truth is, you don’t need the flashiest or most complicated tools to succeed. In fact, the ones that work best usually fit your habits, goals, and lifestyle. Choosing digital tools wisely helps you stay focused without adding unnecessary stress.

How to build a digital toolkit that works for you:

At the end of the day, the best digital toolkit is the one that helps you feel organized, confident, and in control of your learning. The goal isn’t collecting the most apps, but instead, creating a system that supports your success without overwhelming you.

• Start with the essentials: Your learning management system (Canvas at NMSU Global), video conferencing (Zoom), and cloud storage (OneDrive) are the foundation. Master these first before adding extras.
• Add gradually: As you discover gaps in your workflow — like struggling with time management or note organization — bring in apps that help you solve those specific problems.
• Look for free or discounted access: Many powerful tools, from Grammarly to Trello, have student versions that cost little or nothing. Take advantage of what’s available before paying for premium subscriptions.
• Match tools to your learning style: Visual learners may benefit from project boards like Trello, while others might prefer simple checklists in Todoist or digital notebooks in OneNote.
• Keep it manageable: Too many tools can become distracting. Stick with the few you’ll use consistently and make them part of your routine.

How NMSU Global Campus Supports Online Students

At NMSU Global Campus, online students don’t have to navigate digital learning alone. New Mexico State University provides a strong foundation of technology support, giving students access to user-friendly platforms, academic resources, and real-time assistance when needed.

Beyond digital tools, NMSU Global Campus students benefit from:

• Your own personal Graduation Team to keep your academic goals on track.
• 24/7 technical support to resolve issues quickly.
• Access to digital libraries and research databases for high-quality academic content.
• A flexible learning model designed for working professionals and adult learners.

This commitment ensures that NMSU Global Campus students receive the same level of academic excellence and support as their on-campus peers with the added flexibility of studying from anywhere.

Building Confidence With Digital Tools

Digital learning tools are more than conveniences, they’re the foundation of a successful online education. By familiarizing yourself with the essentials, from learning management systems to project management apps, students can create an environment where flexibility and productivity go hand in hand.

At NMSU Global Campus, online students gain the knowledge, resources, and support needed to thrive in today’s digital classroom. Whether you’re starting your first college course or returning to school to advance your career, the right tools — paired with the right university — can help you achieve your goals with confidence.

References

1. “Fast Facts: Back-to-school statistics.” National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), last updated in 2024.

2. Armstrong, L. “Goodnotes vs. Notability: App Review [Updated for 2025].” Paperlike, last updated 24 March 2025.